Muckleshoot Tribe will be doing some firework displays this month — here’s what you need to know

As they do every year, the Muckleshoot Tribe will be doing firework displays this month and early next month in the run-up to the 4th of July holiday.

Displays will happen the nights of Saturday, June 17th and Saturday, July 1. Also, expect to see and hear plenty of fireworks happening near the Muckleshoot Casino Resort at 2402 Auburn Way South on the 4th of July holiday on Tuesday, in addition to your neighborhoods.

As you’re probably aware, the Muckleshoot Tribe is a sovereign nation, meaning only federal and tribal laws apply to members of the tribe on tribal land.

That means City of Auburn regulations on fireworks do not apply on tribal land. In other words, on Muckleshoot land, we have no authority on enforcing city fireworks laws.

And what are those regulations?

City of Auburn Regulations

Discharge of legal* fireworks is allowed on July 4th only, between the hours of 9 a.m. to 11 p.m.Discharge is also allowed from 6 p.m. on Dec. 31, to 1 a.m. on Jan. 1.

You must be at least 16 years old to purchase legal fireworks.

Increased Enforcement

The Auburn Police Department will cite those using fireworks unlawfully with a possible fine of up to $1,000 and 90 days in jail. Those discharging fireworks recklessly face up to a $5,000 fine and a year in jail. Anyone caught in possession of a device containing more than 2 grains of pyrotechnic charge (such as an M80) may be charged with a felony, punishable up to 20 years in prison.

If you are partaking in fireworks this year, remember to do so safely and legally.

• Consider attending a public display as a safe alternative
• Buy and use only legal fireworks
• Follow directions and safety recommendations printed on the fireworks
• Maintain adult supervision
• Use fireworks in an area clear of materials that can burn (grass, bark, trees)
• Keep garden hoses ready
• Wet down fireworks display area
• Light one item at a time, move away quickly and keep a safe distance
• Dispose of used fireworks by first soaking them in water
• Trim any tall grass close to buildings or fences
• Clean all gutters and move burnable materials away from homes
• Place minor burns in cool water, call 911 if you need further assistance

The Royal Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals has some great tips on how to make fireworks a bit less scary for our furry friends. Consider these tips:

• Walk your dog during daylight hours to avoid times when fireworks are likely to be set off.
• Move your dog to the safe haven each evening before the fireworks begin. Provide toys and other things that they enjoy in the safe haven.
• Make sure there are things for you to do too, so your dog isn’t left alone.
• Close windows and curtains to muffle the sound of fireworks. Blackout your doggy safe haven, so they can’t see any flashes outside.
• Put on some music or TV to mask the firework sounds.
• Ignore the firework noises yourself. Play with a toy to see if your dog wants to join in, but don’t force them to play.