Concerns for fire danger are heightened during upcoming July 4th holiday celebrations. As a result, the City of Hood River has declared an emergency ban on the use of personal fireworks effective immediately due to weather and nearby wildfire conditions.
The current wildfire in Underwood, WA combined with recent hot temperatures, dry conditions and natural high winds in the area make this year particularly risky for the public and challenging for emergency responders.
“The fire risk is too high in these extreme conditions and more dry, hot weather is forecast,” said Hood River Mayor Paul Blackburn. “It’s critical to exercise caution and put safety first rather than add more strain on our public safety system during this busy period for Hood River Fire & EMS.”
Hood River is following several nearby cities, including White Salmon and Cascade Locks in declaring emergencies and banning personal use of fireworks.
City Ordinance 2047 specifically prohibits the discharge of fireworks after July 15th until November 15th. This means personal fireworks use will not be allowed again within the City of Hood River until November 16, 2023. After that time, personal fireworks use will be allowed until July 15, 2024 unless a fire emergency or burn ban is declared by the City of Hood River Fire Chief. City Ordinance 2047 traditionally prohibits the sale and use of fireworks annually from July 8th – November 15th because of increased fire risk during the traditional fire season.
Oregon State Law allows local government to prohibit or exercise limitations on fireworks sales and use.