| Welcome to the Guemes Island Property Owners Association Many Common Fireworks Are Illegal Per RCW 70.77 Firecrackers, bottle rockets, skyrockets, M-80s and other illegal explosive devices are all illegal and are prohibited on Guemes Island per RCW 70.77 according to Kevin Noyes of the Fire Marshal's office as reported at the GIPOA public meeting on fireworks April 12, 2008. Noyes also reported that fires and other property damage reported to the Fire Marshal?s office were nearly $10,000,000 during 2006 resulting from fireworks in Washington State alone. Noyes also reported over 1000 injuries from fireworks in the same year in Washington State. Issues of fire danger, emotional harm to pets and wild animals, disturbances to residents, litter and injuries were discussed by the meeting attendees. Testimony from Dr. William Testerman, DVM was heard concerning the behavioral impact on pets from the noisy environment as well as injuries to dogs that unwittingly pick up unexploded firecrackers. There is little chance that the RCW will be policed by enforcement agencies because of other priorities. The conclusion appeared to be that education of the public and an appeal to our neighbors for understanding would be the best approaches to fireworks issues. GIPOA is currently pulling together an educational program involving signage, mailers and public discussion of the fireworks issue. Please contact GIPOA's president Howard Pellett at 360.293.8128 or cpellett@cablerocket.com to comment or offer assistance. The Guemes Island Property Owners Association (GIPOA) is looking for Guemes Islanders interested in sharing a little bit of their time to give to island issues. GIPOA is looking for your ideas. Call or email Howard
Pellett, president at 293-8128 or cpellett@cnw.com if you are |
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| Guemes
Compass A Guide to Guemes Living
The purpose of this organization shall be to have open discussion and to take concerted action on the problems facing all property owners and residents of Guemes Island. |
