RiverCom urges residents to save 911 for fireworks emergencies

WENATCHEE — With Fourth of July celebrations expected to bring an increase in fireworks activity and emergency calls, RiverCom 911 is reminding residents to reserve 911 for emergencies and use its non-emergency line to report less urgent concerns.

Fireworks are illegal throughout Chelan and Douglas counties, including so-called "safe and sane" fireworks, with the exception of the City of Rock Island, where fireworks are permitted during the holiday period under city regulations.

RiverCom officials said the regional emergency communications center has historically experienced a surge in fireworks-related calls around Independence Day. During periods of high call volume, non-emergency reports to 911 can overwhelm dispatchers and delay responses to critical emergencies.

Residents are encouraged to call RiverCom's non-emergency line at (509) 663-9911 to report fireworks complaints that do not involve an immediate threat to life or property. Calls to the business line are initially answered by RiverCom's automated assistant, Ava, which gathers information, determines whether the situation is an emergency and routes callers appropriately.

Officials emphasized that dangerous fireworks activity resulting in explosions, fires, injuries or other immediate public safety hazards should still be reported by calling 911.

Additional information about fireworks safety and regulations is available through the Skip the Sparks campaign.

Andrew Simpson: 509-433-7626 or andrew@ward.media