Fireworks Safety

It’s that time of year again – the 2014 fireworks season is just around the corner. Beginning June 23 and running through July 6, fireworks are approved for sale in Oregon.   State-legal fireworks can be purchased from licensed retailers in Tualatin during this time period. You can also enjoy watching the large professional fireworks displays around the area.

Each year during this time period, Tualatin Police and Tualatin Valley Fire and Rescue respond to a number of fireworks related incidents. Some of these incidents have resulted in very large dollar losses and have damaged both vehicles and buildings. Injuries related to fireworks use are also a concern and national statistics indicate children and teenagers have two-and-a-half times the risk of fireworks-related injury as compared to the general population.

The Tualatin Police Department and Tualatin Valley Fire and Rescue encourage you and your family to have a fun and enjoyable Independence Day celebration by ensuring safe practices and legal use of consumer fireworks. Please use your fireworks safely.

For more information on this or other prevention related topics, contact Tualatin Valley Fire and Rescue at (503) 649-8577 or the Tualatin Police Department at (503) 691-4800.

Protect your family and property from fireworks related fires and injuries by practicing the “Four BE’s” as recommended by the Oregon State Fire Marshal’s Office and the Tualatin Police Department.

BE AWARE of laws governing fireworks

• Use only legal fireworks.
• Use fireworks only in legal places.
• Consumer fireworks are prohibited in City and State Parks.
• Civil Fines can exceed $500.00 AND Criminal Charges may be filed!!!

BE PREPARED before lighting the fireworks

• Use only legal fireworks available at licensed fireworks sales locations.
• Store fireworks out of children’s reach.
• Always read and follow the fireworks label directions.
• Place pets indoors; they are easily frightened by fireworks.
• Always have water handy (a garden hose or a bucket of water).

BE SAFE when lighting fireworks

• An adult should always light the fireworks.
• Keep matches and lighters away from children.
• Use fireworks only outside – away from combustibles.
• Light one firework at a time and move away quickly.
• Keep children and pets away from fireworks.
• Do not throw fireworks or hold in your hand.

BE RESPONSIBLE after lighting fireworks

• Soak used fireworks thoroughly in a bucket of water.
• Dispose of used fireworks and debris properly.
• Never re-light a “dud” firework (wait at least 15-20 minutes and then soak it in a bucket of water).