Following record-breaking temperatures and considering current widespread drought conditions, the Lincoln County Fire Defense Board is urging all Lincoln County residents and visitors to our area to forego the use of fireworks to celebrate the Fourth of July this year. The public is encouraged to voluntarily restrict the use of any fireworks, even those that are considered legal in the State of Oregon. The Fire Defense Board has met with local metropolitan and surrounding county leadership who have banned firework use in their areas. This, to discourage their citizens from bringing fireworks into Lincoln County. Regional and local media outlets have also been requested to broadcast this message for widespread distribution.
Emergency responders in Lincoln County are working collaboratively to send a strong message that our community has suffered enough in the past year under the weight of the coronavirus pandemic and the September wildfires. The public is also asked to be mindful of the strain imposed on our public safety system due to the use of fireworks. Please do not call 9-1-1 to report fireworks use! It is especially important that our 9-1-1 system remain available for reporting only active fires, serious medical problems, and crimes in progress.
To report the use of illegal fireworks—those that explode or fly into the air—please call non-emergency dispatch in your area and be prepared to provide the address location. In preparation for this holiday weekend, on duty Fire, EMS, and Law Enforcement personnel will be supported with extra staffing, equipment, and active patrols throughout Lincoln County.
There are many professional shows being hosted throughout Lincoln County on the 3rd and 4th. Please consider attending an event rather than creating your own.
Oregon law prohibits the 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. Officials may seize illegal fireworks and charge offenders with a class B misdemeanor, which could result in a fine of up to $2,500 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 damages. Parents are also liable for fireworks damage caused by their children.
