‘Stay legal’: Fireworks company’s national safety expert advises Central Oregonians how to minimize fire risk
Claire Elmer
(Update: adding interview with TNT safety expert, full story, video)
BEND, Ore. (KTVZ) — Fire season is already in full swing for Central Oregon. With the Alder Springs Fire and numerous other blazes throughout the area fresh in residents’ minds, the use of personal fireworks for the July 4th holiday is up for debate.
The Redmond City Council will be holding a special meeting on Tuesday afternoon to discuss a potential ban of fireworks within Redmond’s city limits.
If the council decides against a ban, or if you live in another area of Central Oregon that does not have one in place, there are certain precautions you should take to ensure you keep your risk of starting a fire as minimal as possible.
KTVZ News spoke Monday with TNT Fireworks’ national safety expert, James Fuller, who is also a former firefighter.
“Stay legal. That’s our No. 1 message to all of our communities,” Fuller told us. “Go with product that’s marked, licensed and prepared for consumers. If it doesn’t have the warning labels or instructions, set it aside. It’s probably not legal product. And if it’s not legal product, we can’t guarantee it’s safe product.”
He suggests you be prepared with a water hose or five-gallon bucket full of water if you plan to use legal fireworks in an area they are allowed. Having a fire extinguisher on hand is also a smart idea.
When it comes to used fireworks, be sure to submerge them in a bag or container full of water.
“I want you to give your fireworks a bath. Let them stay in there a minute or so. Then, put them in a trash bag and set aside for at least 30 minutes before you put it in a proper trash receptacle,” said Fuller.
When lighting fireworks, it is recommended you use a ‘fireworks punk’ — a slow-burning, smoldering stick that allows you to light the firework from a distance to protect your body. Keep in mind that even legal handheld sparklers can burn between 1,700 and 2,500 degrees, meaning their sparks can cause major damage.
You should also only light fireworks on a surface such as concrete, asphalt, or dirt, a safe distance away from any vegetation or structure. It is not a safe option to light fireworks in grass, even if wet. Use sandbags, bricks, or rocks to stabilize fireworks so they do not topple over.
If you come across a ‘dud’ firework that does not light on the first try, do not try to light it again. “If you bought that product at any one of our stores or in any reputable licensed dealership, you just keep that product. Bring it back to next year. We’ll give you a free one, no questions asked,” said Fuller. Set the firework aside, in your sight, for at least 30 minutes before storing it.
For ‘duds’ or unused fireworks, Fuller says they are a stable product that can be safely stored in your home, garage, or storage shed for later use or exchange. Fuller says to ensure they do not pose any significant risk, store them in a low-temperature area, away from anything flammable, and where they aren’t exposed to any flames, appliances, or electrical equipment that is plugged in.
Another thing Fuller wants the public to remember: Keep pets safe. If you have pets and are going to be lighting fireworks, make sure your pets are secured inside and kept in a calm environment. Do your part to keep your neighbors with pets informed — if you are going to be lighting fireworks, notify them so they can be prepared and secure their animals.
Finally, check your local restrictions on fireworks. La Pine, Sunriver, Bend and Sisters all currently have fireworks bans in place within city limits. As mentioned above, the city of Redmond may enforce a ban as well. In Oregon, fireworks are prohibited on Oregon State beaches, parks, campgrounds, and State and Federal forest lands.
If you are caught using fireworks in a prohibited area or using illegal fireworks, you may be charged with a class B misdemeanor, which could result in a fine of up to $2,500 per violation and a civil penalty of up to $500. You can call your local law enforcement’s non-emergency number for assistance in disposing of fireworks or to check legality in your area.
Here’s what the Oregon Office of Emergency Management just shared about fireworks safety, as well as some other summertime fire safety tips:
OEM Encourages Oregonians to Celebrate the July 4 Holiday in a Fire-safe Way!
SALEM, Ore. — The Fourth of July is a time for celebration, filled with fireworks, barbecues, and outdoor fun. But with all the excitement, it’s important to prioritize fire safety to ensure a safe and enjoyable holiday for everyone. Eighty-five percent of wildfires are started by humans—many times with fireworks and campfires.
Whether you are celebrating at home or traveling out of the area, know the latest road conditions, check if you are visiting an area near a wildfire, make sure you are signed up for Oregon emergency alerts, activate Federal Wireless Emergency Alerts on your phone, understand the evacuation levels, and make sure you have an emergency kit in your car—stay safe and don’t be the spark this holiday.
Fireworks—Keep it Legal. Keep it Safe.
Fireworks are a staple of Independence Day, but they can also be dangerous. The safest way to enjoy fireworks is to attend a public display organized by professionals. There are plenty of places you can see coastal displays, Portland area displays, the southern Willamette Valley, as well as other parts of Oregon. If you choose to use consumer fireworks, follow these precautions – including:
Always check local regulations before lighting fireworks in your area.
Never give fireworks to small children and keep a bucket of water or a hose nearby in case of emergencies.
Light fireworks one at a time and never attempt to relight a dud.
Maintain a safe distance from fireworks and never point them at people, animals, or structures.
Remember, all fireworks are banned on public lands. This includes state and federal parks.
Campfire and Outdoor Fire Safety—Don’t be the Spark.
Oregon Parks and Recreation Department maintains a state parks campfire/flame restrictions in page, the Oregon Department of Forestry maintains one for state lands, and the Bureau of Land management maintains a list for federal land. If your celebration includes a campfire or fire pit, follow these guidelines:
Check if fires are allowed where you are camping.
Keep flames small—about knee height—to prevent embers from drifting into trees or dry areas. If the wind picks up embers, put the fire out.
Use designated fire rings—they’re placed in safe areas with buffers of at least 25 feet away from tents and vegetation. Use outdoor fireplaces and fire pits only in well-ventilated areas.
Always have water nearby to fully extinguish the fire—douse, stir the embers, and ensure everything is wet.
Beach fires belong on open sand—keep them away from driftwood and plants. Pour water slowly to avoid spraying hot sand. Never use sand to smother the fire—it traps heat and can cause burns later.
Propane fire rings require the same precautions as wood fires—rules may vary by location.
Never leave a fire unattended—many accidents happen when campers step away for just a minute. Ensure everyone, including kids, understands fire safety.
Grilling Safety
Backyard barbecues are a great way to celebrate, but they also pose fire hazards. Keep these tips in mind:
Place your grill away from overhanging branches, siding, or deck railings.
Never grill indoors and always supervise the grill while in use.
Keep children and pets at least three feet away from the grill.
Use long-handled tools designed for grilling to prevent burns.
Additional Fire Risks
Discarded cigarettes – a single lit cigarette tossed carelessly can spark a wildfire.
Equipment malfunctions – sparks from machinery, vehicles, or electrical failures can ignite dry vegetation.
Dragging metal – loose chains or parts dragging on the road can create sparks.
Exhaust system failures – Worn-out catalytic converters and exhaust components can emit hot carbon particles.
Brake pad wear – thin brake pads can cause metal-on-metal contact, generating fire-causing sparks.
Low tire pressure – driving on exposed rims due to low tire pressure can throw sparks.
Parking on dry grass – hot exhaust parts can ignite dry vegetation on contact.
Electrical system failures – faulty wiring or damaged electrical components can lead to vehicle fires.
Fuel system leaks – gasoline leaks can ignite from heat or sparks.
By following the above fire safety tips and being aware of all the ways fires can spark, you can enjoy a fun and safe Fourth of July celebration.
For more fire safety tips, visit FEMA or the U.S. Fire Administration.