Independence Day Events, Reminders

Recent heat makes for dry grasses and potential fireworks hazard and local fire departments encourage people using fireworks to "keep it safe and legal." In the U.S., misuse of fireworks causes injuries, deaths and major damage from fires every year. Fireworks can cause fires if used around combustibles and dry grass. Tiny sparklers burn at 1,200 degrees – hotter than the melting point of glass according to Roseburg Fire Chief Monte Bryan said before retiring. “The reality is the fire danger is still very real,” Bryan. “Even though it’s been raining and wet, we’re still looking at drought conditions coming up and fuels have dried out very quickly. It can give people a false sense of safety. Know that even the smallest spark can create a disastrous fire." Although the City of Roseburg allows the use of legal fireworks within city limits, it is the responsibility of the person using the fireworks to do so legally and safely, while being respectful others. Residents should use fireworks on private property with adequate clearance from dry grass, trees, bushes and combustible structures. Fireworks cannot legally be used at any parks, campgrounds, forests or beaches. Fireworks must be bought in Oregon. “Consumer” fireworks bought from a licensed vendor in Roseburg are legal to use without a permit. Firework vending booths and tents selling legal fireworks can be found throughout Roseburg. Seven indoor booths and four tents have been sanctioned by the State Fire Marshal’s Office. Legal sales run Thursday, June 23, through Wednesday, July 6. After you’re finished lighting fireworks, clean up your mess and use a shovel to move everything into a bucket of water overnight. Don’t leave used fireworks unattended. Fireworks are made out of cardboard and paper, and can ignite when temperatures heat up the next day, Bryan said. Officials may seize illegal fireworks and charge offenders with a class B misdemeanor, which could result in a fine of up to $2,500. Those who misuse fireworks or allow fireworks to cause damage or injuries are liable and may be required to pay fire suppression costs or other damage. Parents are liable for fireworks damage caused by their children. “We ask that those using fireworks be responsible when using them,” Oregon Office of State Fire Marshal Assistant Chief Deputy Mark Johnston said in a press release. “Every year, we see fires started because of improper use or use of illegal fireworks. Our message is to keep it legal and keep it safe as people celebrate the holiday.” *** Events July 2 - Glendale Fourth of July Celebration is all weekend from July 2 at 10 a.m. to July 4 at 10 p.m. in Memorial Park. This city-wide celebration include kids games, vendor and food booths, dunk tank, contests and cake walks, plus a parade and fireworks on July 4th. - Winston Area Independence Day Celebration will start with a parade starting at Winston’s Now and Then Antique Mall down to Riverbend Park. There will be vendors, crafts, and music from Velvet Whiskey, at 6 pm. Fireworks start at dusk. July 4 - Roseburg Hometown 4th of July Fireworks show will have events all day at the Douglas County Speedway and Fairgrounds starting at 10 a.m. There will be drag racing and a burn out competition, a street car challenge, circle track racing, a fan-choice parade, and fireworks. - Oakland Parade will start at 11 a.m. and end at 1 p.m. Those who want to participate in the parade should show up at the parking lot next to Washington School/City Hall at 10:30 a.m. There will be a BBQ picnic in the City Park at noon. - Diamond Lake Resort Firework Show will start at first dark, around 10 p.m. The firework show is also celebrating the 100th anniversary of the resort.