July 4th Fireworks and Safety

NEWS RELEASE
A Public Service Announcement
From the City of Bend Fire Department

June 22, 2012

For Immediate Release
For More Information: Cindy Kettering, Deputy Fire Marshal
Phone: 541-322-6300

July 4th Fireworks and Safety

The 4th of July holiday is always a busy time of year. It is a day of parades, fun in the park, barbecues and of course fireworks. The Bend Fire Department would like to remind you to keep the day safe and don’t get burned with fireworks.

Fireworks go on sale in Oregon on Saturday, June 23. There are many retailers that you can purchase legal fireworks from in the Bend area. Buying fireworks from a permitted facility helps ensure you are buying legal and compliant fireworks for use in Bend and throughout Oregon. Fireworks purchased in one state may not be legal in another state. Contact your local fire department for a list of permitted and approved fireworks sales locations in your area.

According to the CPSC and NFPA, during 2010 there were nearly 10,000 people injured by fireworks and many of those were children. In fact, children ages 5 – 14 have the highest risk of injury due to fireworks, more than double the risk of the general population. Also in 2010, fireworks were responsible for 15,500 reported fires resulting in $36 million in property damage. Nationally and locally, Independence Day is the busiest day of the year for fire and police departments.

In Bend the legal age to buy, sell, possess or use fireworks is 18 years of age. This means that an adult is required to purchase, handle and ignite the fireworks used in Bend. Other communities may have different regulations, check with your local fire or police department to find out what the legal age is for fireworks sale, possession and use in your area.

Fireworks illegal in the State of Oregon are any type that fly, explode, eject balls of fire or move across the ground more than 6 feet or into the air more than 12 inches. This includes aerial or “sky lanterns” which have recently become popular. Deschutes County 911 will be fielding all fireworks related complaints through their dispatch center. Citizens can call the non-emergency phone 693-6911 to report illegal fireworks use. Persons using illegal fireworks are subject to a citation up to $750 (plus court cost/fees) and confiscation of all illegal fireworks.

Use caution when using fireworks. As the days get hotter and drier, the possibility of fires due to fireworks use increases. Ensure you are using fireworks in a safe manner this holiday season. Most of these fires and injuries are preventable. By following these simple tips, you and your family can stay safe this Fourth of July:

• BE PREPARED:

  • Only use fireworks that are LEGAL FOR USE IN OREGON 
  •  Always read the directions of the firework you are about to use
  • Set up a bucket of water or have a hose ready to douse any misfired fireworks or fires 
  • Soak used fireworks in water prior to disposing of them

• BE SAFE: 

  •  Only use fireworks outdoors, on a non-combustible surface keeping away from cars, buildings, and combustible vegetation 
  • Never alter fireworks or make your own 
  • Never pick up or try to re-light a “dud”

• BE RESPONSIBLE: 

  •  Store fireworks, lighters and matches out of reach of children 
  • BEND CITY CODE 5.30.000 – It is unlawful for a person under the age of 18 years to sell, keep or offer for sale, expose for sale, possess, use, explode or have exploded any fireworks within the City. 
  • Supervise the area where fireworks are being used and make sure everyone is kept a safe distance away from the fireworks 
  • Alcohol use can contribute to an even greater risk of injury or fire when combined with fireworks use, please be responsible.

The annual Pilot Butte display is a safe alternative and is one of the largest shows in Oregon. It provides an incredible fireworks show for people of all ages to enjoy without risk to life or property.

For more information please visit the City of Bend’s web site www.ci.bend.or.us and go to the Fire Department’s page for more on Fireworks and fire safety.

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