Tualatin Valley Fire & Rescue is teaming up with the Office of State Fire Marshal (OSFM), Oregon fire service, Keep Oregon Green, natural resource agencies, Oregon fireworks wholesalers, and safety experts to encourage Oregonians to “Keep it Legal, and Keep it Safe” when using fireworks.
The 2015 Oregon fireworks sales season opens Tuesday, June 23, and runs through July 6. The OSFM and its partners want everyone to know what fireworks are legal in Oregon, where they are permitted, and the important steps to take for fireworks safety.
To aid in the effort, TVF&R is hosting a safety talk and firework demonstration on Tuesday at 9:30 a.m. at the Training Center, 12400 S.W. Tonquin Road in Sherwood.
Brent Griffiths, compliance specialist for OSFM, and representatives from TVF&R, Portland Fire & Rescue, Salem Police Department, and Oregon State Parks will speak. Representatives from Legacy Emanuel Hospital, Clackamas Fire District, the Bureau of Land Management, Oregon Department of Forestry, Multnomah County Animal Services, and Oregon Humane Society will also be available for media interviews.
“People often forget that 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. For example, fireworks are prohibited on all Oregon beaches, in parks, and campgrounds.”
Fourth of July 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,” said Keep Oregon Green President Kristin Babbs. “Enjoy fireworks where they belong: on the pavement — safely away from houses, vehicles, and flammable vegetation.”
Oregon law bans possession, use, or sale of fireworks that fly, explode, or travel more than 6 feet on the ground or 12 inches into the air. Fireworks commonly called bottle rockets, roman candles, and firecrackers are illegal in Oregon.
“All Oregonians share the responsibility to use only legal fireworks and use them carefully,” Walker added. “And, we encourage you to be aware and considerate of neighbors and their pets, before deciding on when and where you choose to light fireworks.”
The OSFM and TVF&R encourage everyone to use the “Four B’s” of firework safety:• 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 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.