"Got Fireworks?  Keep it Legal...Keep it Safe"

Tualatin Valley Fire & Rescue in the last eight years has responded to an average of 24 fires each year with a total loss equaling more than $1,281,912 to property and homes. 

TVF&R is concerned that the number of individuals using illegal fireworks appears to be growing each year. Oregon law bans fireworks that fly, explode, or act in an uncontrolled manner. Many fireworks purchased by mail order or in the state of Washington are illegal in Oregon. This includes bottle rockets, roman candles, firecrackers, and explosives such as M80s.  To ensure that you are using legal fireworks, purchase them from an Oregon licensed firework stand or retail outlet. 

Laws & Penalties for Fireworks

Although fireworks sold at local stands are legal in Oregon, it does not mean they are less risky than illegal fireworks. In fact, many of the fireworks fires responded to by TVF&R are caused by improper use or disposal of legal fireworks. The majority of these incidents involved situations where people placed devices they thought were “spent” into trash containers alongside buildings and they later ignited.

Celebrate Safely:

• Have a bucket of water or hose nearby to "douse" misfired and spent fireworks and/or extinguish potential fires.

• Use fireworks outside on a paved surface, far away from buildings and bushes.

• Never aim fireworks at people, property, or pets.

• Never alter fireworks or make your own.

• Never pick up or try to re-light a "dud."

• Store fireworks, lighters, and matches out of the reach of children.

• Only adults should handle or light fireworks. Supervise children at all times when using fireworks.

TVF&R has committed to a Firework Campaign that includes flyers, newsletter articles, neighborhood patrols, news stories, deputy fire marshals at public firework displays, public service announcements, and investigation of all firework-caused fires.

TVF&R crews will be driving throughout neighborhoods on the Fourth of July to remind individuals to “Keep it Legal…Keep it Safe.”  Individuals will be reminded to use fireworks safely and informed of the penalties associated with illegal fireworks. In addition, firework-caused fires will be investigated and Deputy Fire Marshals will be present at public displays. If someone is found breaking the fireworks law, law enforcement may be summoned.

Laws and Penalties

Based on laws and penalties relating to types of fireworks and their misuse:

• You can be held liable for damages resulting from use of fireworks - legal or illegal.

• Parents can be held liable for damage caused by their children

• Under Oregon law, officials can seize illegal fireworks and you can be fined up to $500 per violation and/or arrested.

• Fire departments can fine you for the cost of extinguishing fires caused by fireworks.

back to top