Use of fireworks  in unincorporated area allowed July 4

VANCOUVER – Fireworks go on sale in Clark County beginning Wednesday, June 28. For the Independence Day holiday, residents can use fireworks in unincorporated Clark County from 9 am to midnight Tuesday, July 4.

Illegal use of fireworks such as using them after curfew or device type violation is subject to a $500 civil fine for first time offenders. 

Fireworks also can be used from 6 pm Dec. 31 to 1 am Jan. 1 in unincorporated areas. To learn more about permitted times for fireworks use and what types are not allowed, go to www.clark.wa.gov/community-development/fireworks. 

Vancouver has banned fireworks within its city limits, and rules vary in other cities in the county. Clark County provides an online chart, indicating when fireworks can be used in different areas of the county. There is also an interactive map that allows the public to quickly determine the rules for fireworks use based on an address anywhere in the county. Additionally, each sales location in the county is required to post signage outlining when fireworks can be used legally.

Clark Regional Emergency Services Agency has established this phone number for reporting nuisance fireworks complaints: 360.597.7888. Residents are asked not to call 911 or 311 for the purpose of reporting nuisance fireworks. 

Safety first

Residents and visitors are urged to celebrate the Fourth of July with extra caution because improper use of fireworks can lead to grass or structure fires. 

If you plan to buy fireworks, the best option is to purchase them locally from a stand inspected by the Clark County Fire Marshal’s Office. Fireworks purchased outside the county may not be legal locally.

A few important safety reminders:

• Always have a bucket of water and water hose ready to douse any fire.
• Assign a responsible adult to supervise fireworks use.
• Use fireworks outdoors in a clear area away from buildings, vehicles and dry vegetation.
• Never aim fireworks at people or structures.
• Never attempt to alter fireworks or relight “duds” that fail to ignite.
• Place used fireworks in a bucket of water to soak overnight before disposing of them. These devices can still be smoldering and could start a fire if placed in a trash receptacle.

Information provided by Clark Co. WA Communications.