Improperly discarded fireworks are said to be the cause of an overnight residential fire in the Santa Clara area on July 5th, reported by the Lane Fire Authority Fire Marshal.
Local fire crews arrived on the scene shortly after midnight to find a home on Maesner Street with a garage heavily engulfed in flames. The fire quickly began to spread through the remainder of the house while the firefighters worked to battle the blaze.
Luckily, the family was able to escape the fire without experiencing any injuries. However, the home is a total loss after suffering about $300,000 in damages. The home next door also suffered significant fire damage from the residual heat.
Officials have revealed that legal fireworks were discarded in a bucket without water in the garage, igniting the fire.
Oregon Fireworks Safety Tips
Firecrackers, sparklers, and skyrockets are synonymous with Fourth of July and New Year’s celebrations. Although fireworks are a great American pastime, they are incredibly hazardous. If handled or disposed of improperly, fireworks can be a danger to you and the people around you.
A recent study by the United States Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) revealed that fireworks-related injuries and deaths rose 50% between 2019 and 2020. Keep yourself and others safe the next time you use fireworks by following these safety tips:
- Never use fireworks while under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
- Do not allow children to play with or ignite fireworks, including sparklers.
- Only use legal fireworks labeled for consumer (not professional) use.
- Keep a bucket of water or a garden hose nearby in case of fire.
- Light fireworks one at a time.
- After igniting a firework, be sure to move away quickly.
- Do not attempt to relight or touch a malfunctioning firework.
- Never point or throw fireworks (including sparklers) at anyone.
Once a firework has completed its burning, prevent a fire by sufficiently dousing the spent device with water and allowing them to soak for at least 15-20 minutes before discarding.
Oregon Laws Regarding the Use of Fireworks
In Oregon, the use of fireworks is prohibited on all beaches, in state parks, and on all state and federal forest lands. All fireworks purchased for use in Oregon must also come from a state-permitted retail fireworks sales location. Other state laws regarding explosives, flammable materials, and pressure vessels, including pyrotechnics, are outlined in ORS 480.111; which classifies illegal fireworks as:
“… any fireworks other than consumer fireworks including but not limited to, any firework that flies into the air, or explodes or behaves in an uncontrolled and unpredictable manner.”
The Office of State Fire Marshal does not currently have any guidelines covering when you can use retail fireworks purchased during the retail fireworks sale dates of June 23 to July 6. However, some local governments may regulate firework use, so check with your specific city or county to verify legality in your area.
You May Be Able to Recover Damages Caused by Fireworks with an Oregon Attorney
If you or someone you care about has suffered an injury or had property damaged by fireworks, you may be eligible to recover compensation under Oregon state law. Rizk Law personal injury lawyers are experienced in helping victims of firework accidents. We have helped our clients in Portland and throughout Oregon acquire fair settlements for the losses they have endured because of negligent or careless parties for many years.
To schedule a free review of your situation by a Rizk Law attorney, contact our office by calling (503) 245-5677 or filling out our convenient contact form, and we will get back to you as soon as possible.
