Portland Gives Greenlight To July 4th Fireworks

By Kristian Foden-Vencil (OPB)
Portland, Oregon July 1, 2015 7:30 p.m.

The Portland Fire & Rescue has decided against banning fireworks over the Fourth of July weekend, so long as the weather cooperates.

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Illegal fireworks cause loud explosions or spread sparks over a long distance.

Illegal fireworks cause loud explosions or spread sparks over a long distance.

Kristian Foden-Vencil / OPB

High temperatures and strong winds had the fire bureau considering a ban, but chief Erin Janssens decided against it.

"Legal fireworks will be allowed providing people exercise caution and follow safety protocols such as using only an open area, over non-combustible surfaces, such as concrete or asphalt; having a clean metal bucket to place expended fireworks in; and never attempting to relight a dud," said Janssens.

If the wind picks up or temperatures rise, the rules could change.

The bureau said people should report illegal fireworks by calling 503-823-BOOM.

Those are fireworks that fly into the air, cause a loud explosion or spread sparks over a long distance.

Fireworks caused 13 fires in the City of Portland last Fourth of July.

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