Use in unincorporated area allowed only on July 4

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

Vancouver has banned fireworks within its city limits, and rules vary in other cities in the county. To learn more about permitted times in your area, types of illegal fireworks, and other important safety information, go to www.clark.wa.gov/community-development/fireworks.

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

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: 360.696.BANG (2264). The phone line will be in operation during the following times:

• 7 pm to midnight Wednesday, July 1
• 7 am to 1 pm Thursday, July 2
• 7 am to 1 pm Friday, July 3
• 7 am to 1 pm Saturday, July 4
• 7 pm to midnight Sunday, July 5

More information and an online reporting form can be found at cresa.wa.gov/fireworks.

Residents are asked not to call 911 or 311 for the purpose of reporting nuisance fireworks. Only call 911 in an emergency when there is a fire, injury or lives are in danger.

Fire Marshal Donna Goddard states: “Don’t become a statistic. Each year, Clark County sees avoidable injuries and property loss due to fireworks use. If you choose to celebrate with fireworks this year, please do so safely and responsibly.”

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.

Only purchase fireworks 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 to soak firework debris overnight before discarding in the trash. Firework debris can still smolder and start a fire if placed in your garbage can. Douse the danger!
• Have a water hose ready to extinguish any fire.
• Assign a responsible adult to supervise fireworks use. More children and young adults are injured each year from fireworks than any other age group.
• Use fireworks outdoors in a clear area away from buildings, vehicles, and spectators.
• Avoid areas with dry grass or vegetation.
• Never aim fireworks at people or structures. Do not lean over fireworks when lighting them.
• Never attempt to alter fireworks or relight “duds” that fail to ignite.

Information provided by Clark Co. WA Communications.