Monroe urges caution with New Year's Eve fireworks

MONROE — People can use fireworks in the City of Monroe to ring in the New Year every Dec. 31 from 6 p.m. to 1 a.m. , but the city is urging caution.

They say:

• Never allow children to play with or ignite fireworks.

• Never point or throw fireworks at another person.

• Only light one device at a time and maintain a safe distance after lighting.

• Never ignite fireworks in a container.

• Do not try to re-light or handle malfunctioning fireworks.

• Soak both spent and unused fireworks in water for a few hours before discarding.

• Always use fireworks outside and have a bucket of water and a hose nearby to extinguish sparks.

• Always light fireworks on a smooth, flat surface away from any building, dry grass or vegetation, or other flammable materials.

• Do not consume alcohol or drugs when handling fireworks.

Call the Monroe Police Department at 360-794-6300 to report a lost or found animal that ran away because of fireworks.