Fireworks Ignite Over 100 Fires in Grant County

Over the recent Fourth of July holiday, Grant County experienced an intense surge of over 100 fire calls, primarily sparked by fireworks. This volume was roughly double that recorded during the initial period of burn restrictions, significantly straining fire agencies and their volunteer crews. Fire Marshal Nathan Poplawski reported that despite the overwhelming number of incidents, most fires were successfully contained with minimal property damage.

Several larger fires did demand considerable resources, but the county largely avoided the catastrophic losses seen in neighboring Douglas County. Fire departments like Coulee City, Ephrata, and Grant County Fire District 5 reported busy weekends, responding to numerous wildland fires, many directly linked to fireworks despite bans in some areas. The dedication of volunteer firefighters was repeatedly highlighted as crucial to managing the crisis.

Fire Chief Jeremy Burns of Ephrata noted that fires began late on July 4th, with some incidents involving fireworks smoldering for days before reigniting. While property damage such as burned fences and decks occurred, no structures were reported lost in Ephrata. Grant County Fire District 3, for example, responded to 40 calls including 22 outside fires, but reported no structures lost and safely managed all permitted fireworks displays.

Adams County Fire District 5 reported a quieter holiday with quick responses to a few grass fires caused by fireworks. Chief Tom Salzbury expressed relief that no significant issues arose, noting that even without a fireworks ban, his crews were prepared. Moses Lake Fire Department handled about 18 calls, primarily brush and vegetation fires associated with fireworks, but contained them without structural damage within the city limits.