PASCO, Wash. — A resident urged the City Council on Aug. 4 to reinstate restrictions on consumer fireworks or to allow legal fireworks only in supervised, designated public areas such as parks and large fields.

Laurie Thompson, a Pasco resident, told the council that during the July 4 period the Pasco Fire Department answered an estimated 86 calls in 24 hours—more than triple normal—and that 54 of those calls were for fires believed to be started by fireworks. Thompson said more than 300 citizens called police about fireworks and that she suspects illegal fireworks contributed to several large fires.

Thompson said she was not opposed to legal fireworks sales in principle but urged the city to manage them more tightly by permitting displays only in designated spaces with fire‑safety personnel present. She also asked whether any illegal fireworks had been confiscated or whether citations had been issued, saying even a few citations could increase compliance with the law.

The public-comment item did not prompt immediate action; city staff and councilmembers acknowledged the concern and the need for further review.

Ending: The council did not vote on fireworks policy at the meeting; Thompson’s remarks were entered into the public record for future consideration.