Fire Marshal About Oregon Fireworks: "Keep It Legal, Keep It Safe."

SALEM, Ore. – Independence day gives people freedom -- to "Keep it legal, keep it safe."

That's the message from the Oregon Office of State Fire Marshal (OSFM) about Oregon's 2022 fireworks retail sales season.

It is underway, running through July 6.

To reduce wildfire risk, some local governments in Oregon have regulations, some including bans such as Talent and Phoenix, on sale or use of fireworks.

OSFM insists people check local regulations and follow them to celebrate the 4th of July holiday.

OSFM says consumer legal fireworks can be purchased only from permitted fireworks retailers and stands, and State regulations restrict where fireworks may be used. It says people who get legal fireworks should "practice the four Bs 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. Never use fireworks near or on dry grass or vegetation.

•Be responsible after lighting fireworks: never relight a dud. Please wait for 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."

OSFM reminds, "Oregon law prohibits "possession, use or sale of any firework that flies into 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."

In Oregon, officials can seize illegal fireworks and charge offenders, which could bring fines up to $2,500, and OSFM says, "Those who misuse fireworks or allow fireworks to cause damage are liable and may be required to pay fire suppression costs or other damages. Parents are also liable for fireworks damage caused by their children."

OSFM says people who visit public lands and parks are asked to leave all fireworks at home and, "The possession and use of fireworks are prohibited in national parks and forests, on Bureau of Land Management lands, U.S. Fish and Wildlife properties, state beaches, state parks, and in-state campgrounds." Fireworks also are prohibited on many private lands protected by the Oregon Department of Forestry.