July 1, 2019 5:25 a.m.
Oregonians are encouraged to keep fireworks use safe and legal as the July 4^th holiday approaches.
A release from the Office of State Fire Marshall, the Oregon Fire Service, natural resource agencies, Oregon licensed fireworks wholesalers and safety experts said the state’s fireworks retail season runs through Saturday.
State Fire Marshal Jim Walker said consumer legal fireworks can only be purchased from Oregon permitted retailers and stands. He said regulations limit where those fireworks may be used. Walker said fire risk in Oregon is already high, and that will only increase.
The release said the use of fireworks is prohibited on all national forestland, Oregon state parks and beaches.
For residents who purchase legal fireworks, the OFSM encourages everyone to practice the 4 B’s of safe fireworks use:
*Be prepared before lighting fireworks: keep water available by using a garden hose or bucket.
*Be safe when lighting fireworks: keep children and pets away from fireworks.
*Be responsible after lighting fireworks: never relight a dud. Wait 15-20 minutes then soak it in a bucket of water before disposal.
*Be aware: Use only legal fireworks and use them only in legal places.
Oregon law prohibits the use, or sale of any firework that flies in the air, explodes, or travels more than 12 feet horizontally on the ground, without a permit issued by the OSFM. Fireworks commonly called bottle rockets, Roman candles and firecrackers are illegal in Oregon, without a permit.
The release said officials may seize illegal fireworks and charge offenders with a class B misdemeanor, which could result in a fine of up to $2,500 per violation and a civil penalty of up to $500. Those who misuse fireworks or allow fireworks to cause damage are liable and may be required to pay fire suppression costs or other damage. Parents are also liable for fireworks damage caused by their children.