Updated numbers from Fourth of July weekend fires, arrests and more

Over the Fourth of July weekend, Whatcom County residents lit fireworks despite an upgrade to fire danger levels, leading to 68 fire and fireworks-related calls between July 4 and July 6. Four individuals sustained injuries due to fireworks during this time. The Whatcom County Fire Marshal's Office recently elevated the fire danger level from "moderate" to "high," reflecting increased risk. In a related effort, local law enforcement arrested 16 people on suspicion of DUIs, as Bellingham Police conducted extra enforcement during the holiday. The Sheriff’s Office reported nearly 250 DUI arrests in Bellingham alone since the beginning of the year, indicating a troubling trend in impaired driving.

Lt. Claudia Murphy of the Bellingham Police emphasized the need for heightened awareness during holiday celebrations. The combination of increased fire incidents and DUI arrests underscores ongoing public safety challenges in the region. Authorities continue to monitor these situations closely as the summer progresses.