Vancouver has banned fireworks within its city limits, and rules vary in other cities in the county

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

“Even though fireworks are offered for sale starting on June 28, remember that they are not allowed to be used until July 4,” said Clark County Fire Marshal Dan Young. Illegal use of fireworks such as curfew or device type violation is subject to a $500 civil fine for first time offenders. 

Fireworks also can be used from 6 p.m. Dec. 31 to 1 a.m. 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 9-1-1 or 3-1-1 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.  

“Fireworks start more than 19,000 fires and send more than 9,100 people to emergency rooms nationwide each year,” said Young.

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.