Commissioners Request Increased Fire Safety Awareness

WALLA WALLA COUNTY - With local grain at a critical stage for going up in flames, county commissioners, the Walla Walla County fire protection districs and area wheat farmers are joining together to ask citizens to employ extra caution during the upcoming weeks. Sparks from fireworks or a campfire can result in the loss of a crop and livelihood and even the loss of life.

"Even though we have had rainfall recently, with the increasing temperatures and the maturity fo the crop, we still have the potential for extremem fire damage earlier than in years past," said county commission and wheat farmer Perry Dozier.

Citizens are requested not to set off fireworks anywhere near dry materials such as fields of grain or roadsides. It is also a good idea to have a fire extinguisher or hose and water buckets handy at all times. Once the fireworks are over, make sure all items are completely free of heat before leaving the area or disposing of the debris.

In Walla Walla County fireworks may be discharged only between the hours of 9 a.m. and 11 p.m. on July 1, 2, and 3 and then on July 4, from 9 a.m. to midnight. Best yet, consider attending a professional firework display, instead.

I you have any questions, contact your local fire protection district or Chief Eastman.

Fire District #4

Rocky Eastman, Chief

2251 South Howard

Walla Walla, WA

Office 529-1282; cell

520-3799

Fire District #2

Jim Callahan, Sr., Chief

147 West Third Street

Waitsburg, WA 99361

Office 337-6566

Fire District #7

Tim Mayberry, Chief

105 West Third Street

Prescott, WA 99348

Office 849-2846; cell

520-3903