The City of Elgin will not implement a fireworks ban
By Paul Hall on Friday, July 2nd, 2021 in More Top Stories Northeastern Oregon News
A statement from the City of Elgin regarding fireworks this holiday weekend:
ELGIN, OR – (Information provided by the City of Elgin) As the City of Elgin, we understand the importance of celebrating our country’s Independence and allowing our citizens to express their patriotism. The City of Elgin will not be implementing a firework ban but hopes the community members will be responsible and take the necessary precautions. We are experiencing extremely dry, hot conditions in Elgin and the surrounding areas. We are encouraging you to enjoy fireworks at public displays conducted by professionals.
As local weather conditions are expected to remain warm and dry through the fourth, residents are highly encouraged to exercise extreme caution while using fireworks. Provide an extra degree of space between your lighting area and any vegetation. As always, do not use illegal fireworks that can become airborne or travel significant distances in an unpredictable manner.
It is important to note that the firework user or parent is legally responsible for any fire or fire injury caused by legal or illegal fireworks. For this reason, it is extremely important for parents to be present with their children at any time they are using fireworks.
Lighting and watching fireworks can be fun and exciting, as a community we are encouraging you to remember that even legal fireworks can be dangerous and unpredictable. Therefore, extreme caution should always be used when lighting fireworks.
If you choose to use legal fireworks, it is strongly encouraged to adhere to a few very important safety tips to follow EVERY time:
• ALWAYS light fireworks in areas such as gravel or asphalt
• ALWAYS keep a fire extinguisher near by
• ALWAYS have water available (garden hose, bucket of water, etc) and light fireworks well away from combustible vegetation or structures.
• ALWAYS keep pets indoors while fireworks are being used in your neighborhood.
• ALWAYS have an adult light firework and keep matches and lighters always secured.
• ALWAYS light one firework at a time and move away quickly after lighting.
• NEVER throw a firework or hold it in your hand once lit.
• ALWAYS soak used fireworks in a bucket of water overnight prior to discarding in the outdoor trash. Wait 10-20 minutes before picking up a spent firework.
• NEVER re-light a “dud” firework! Wait 15-20 minutes and then soak it in a bucket of water.
• ALWAYS supervise children under the age of 18. Know what they are doing – YOU are responsible!
Designate a responsible adult to watch for sparks and extinguish fireworks. If we come together as a community, we will be able to have a safe 4th of July!
