Fireworks sales in Oregon opened June 23.
“I want to remind all Oregonians that consumer legal fireworks can only be purchased from Oregon permitted fireworks retailers and stands,” said State Fire Marshal Jim Walker.
“And, regulations limit where those fireworks may be used.”
As of last week the Office of State Fire Marshal has issued 722 retail fireworks permits, and 138 display permits.
Oregon law forbids possession, use, or sale of fireworks that fly, explode, or travel more than six feet on the ground or 12 inches in the air, without a permit issued by the OSFM.
Bottle rockets, Roman candles, and firecrackers are illegal in Oregon.
All fireworks are prohibited on all Oregon beaches, in parks, and campgrounds.
July 4 holiday forest visitors are advised to leave all fireworks at home.
The use of fireworks is prohibited on all national forestland, and most other public lands.
“Fireworks compound the threat to already dry forests,” states Keep Oregon Green President Kristin Babbs.
“Enjoy fireworks where they belong: on the pavement- safely away from houses, vehicles, and flammable vegetation.”
There were 192 reported fireworks-related fires in Oregon during 2016, resulting in more than $519,000 in property damage.
Over the past five years, from 2012 through 2016, there were 944 reported fireworks-related fires in Oregon resulting in one death and more than $2.1 million in property damage.
Illegal fireworks can be expensive.
Under Oregon law, illegal fireworks may be confiscated and offenders fined up to $500 per violation for possession of illegal fireworks and endangering life and property. Offenders may also be arrested.
Any fireworks causing damage, or misuse of fireworks carries a liability for the offender, who may be required to pay for resulting fire or other damage. Parents are liable for fireworks-caused damage by their children.
Costs may include assessed fines as well as the cost of suppressing fireworks-caused fires.
Here are four basic “B” rules for using fireworks safely:
– Be Prepared before lighting fireworks: keep water available by using a garden hose or bucket.
n Be Safe when lighting fireworks: keep children and pets away from fireworks.
– Be Responsible after lighting fireworks: never relight a dud. Wait 15 to 20 minutes then soak it in a bucket of water before disposal.
– Be Aware: use only legal fireworks and use them only in legal places.
Also,
– Light all fireworks on a concrete or gravel surface with a 10-foot clearance away from all vegetation and structures.
– Alcohol and fireworks do not mix. Save your alcohol for after the show.
– Be considerate of your neighbors, pets, others near you when considering the timing of your fireworks.