The Office of State Fire Marshal, Oregon fire service, natural resource agencies, Oregon fireworks wholesalers and safety experts encourage Oregonians to keep it legal and keep it safe when using fireworks.
The 2008 Oregon fireworks sales season is open and the OSFM wants everyone to be aware of the type of fireworks legal in Oregon, where these fireworks are permitted and the simple steps everyone can take to increase fireworks safety.
“Legal fireworks may be purchased only from Oregon permitted fireworks retailers and stands,” State Fire Marshal Nancy Orr said in a press release. “Regulations limit where those fireworks may be used. For example, fireworks are prohibited in all state parks, on all Oregon beaches, and in federal parks and forests.”
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 such as bottle rockets, Roman candles and firecrackers are illegal in Oregon.
Under Oregon law, officials may seize illegal fireworks and fine offenders up to $500 per violation. 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.
The 331 reported fireworks-related fires in Oregon during 2007 is a 17 percent increase from the 255 fireworks-related fires in 2006. Total dollar loss from fireworks-related fires in 2007 is estimated at $1.4 million. Adults eighteen and older were responsible for 77 percent of fireworks-related fires last year and youths 17 and younger were responsible for 23 percent of fireworks-related fires.
“All Oregonians share the responsibility to use only legal fireworks and use them carefully,” Orr said.
Steps to safer use of fireworks include:
n 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.
n Be responsible after lighting fireworks: Never relight a dud. Wait 15 to 20 minutes then soak in a bucket of water before disposal.
More information may be found at:
http://egov.oregon.gov/OSP/SFM/docs/Licensing_permits/fireworks/Fireworks2005/3BesFullPage.pdf.
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