Readers Respond: "Light fireworks responsibly"

It’s fireworks week in Oregon—exciting! But with the rising heat, Oregonians must remember to keep fireworks safe this year.

Your Oregon News asked readers about their fireworks usage habits, and whether they support stricter regulations. Here’s what you said.

About 85% of reader respondents said they support stricter regulations on the sale and use of fireworks in Oregon, in order to reduce wildfire risks. About 7% said they are neutral on the topic, and another 7% somewhat oppose stricter regulations.

About 43% of reader respondents said they are fully aware of current legalities regarding fireworks in Oregon; and another 43% said they are somewhat aware. About 7% said they are not very aware, and another 7% is not aware at all of the rules.

More readers, about 57%, said they never use fireworks personally with their families. About 22% said they rarely use them; 11% said they sometimes use them; and 11% said they regularly use fireworks.

About 76% of readers said if they use fireworks, they light them on their own property. Another 54% said they light fireworks on public streets or in parks.

About 83% of readers said they are very concerned about the potential for fireworks to cause wildfires in Oregon this year. About 11% said they are somewhat concerned; and 7% are not very concerned. No one said they are not at all concerned.

Here’s what reader said about fireworks safety in Oregon:

“My family lost a lot during the Holiday farm fire, which I know was not started by fireworks, but worry if stronger restrictions are not set up they could cause another fire, I am for set locations for fireworks to let people go and watch, but not to individual people, there are always idiots out there. Stop the sale of fireworks in Oregon.”

“Fireworks cause noise, garbage and fire. Some people aren’t responsible using them.”

“Regulations of large fireworks used by the public is ineffective and they are a health and safety hazard. Pets and wildlife are disrupted, they create ongoing sound disturbances, air quality issues, and fire hazards.”

“Too much unsupervised, illegal fireworks happen in Oregon. It is sad, when there are major fireworks displays which people can watch that have safety features.”

“It’s a time to enjoy the USA. I’m worried about people drinking too much, but it’s called being responsible. The government isn’t supposed to be all-controlling.”

“Protecting our forests and air quality far outweighs the entertainment value of fireworks.”

“Anything that explodes or pops can aggravate PTSD in people and scares the daylights out of all sorts of animals both domestic and wild.”

“My reason is the Eagle Creek fire evacuation.”

“I have seen too many fires started by fireworks. Plus, the noise is very annoying.”

“Fireworks are bad for dogs and wildlife, are source of fires, and I can't sleep.”

“I hate the noise and the mess that is left behind.”

“Fireworks significantly disturb wildlife (I just read that some birds fly so far away they lack the energy to return),it utterly stresses out many pets and humans, pollutes with uncollected detritus which is especially harmful at the beaches and, of course, increases the risk of fires.”

“I am in favor of safe, public fireworks displays only. All other fireworks should be eliminated, because they are simply not worth the risk.”

“Illegal fireworks brought in from Washington are a bigger problem than those bought locally. Wildfires are a huge risk.”

“Fireworks cause negative impacts to people, wildlife, and fire danger.”

“Fireworks make it too easy to start a devastating fire.”

“Too many people use them recklessly.”