Lane County Parks, Lane Fire Authority and the Lane County Sheriff’s Office are urging caution when celebrating the Fourth of July this year, especially if your plans include parks along Fern Ridge Reservoir.
“Orchard Point and Richardson parks traditionally attract large crowds of people to celebrate the Fourth of July,” said Lane County Parks Manager Brett Henry. “Even though our community partners are not hosting a fireworks show over the reservoir this year, it’s important for park visitors to remember that fireworks are not allowed in any Lane County parks.”
To help park visitors enjoy the holiday safely, Lane County Park Rangers and volunteers from the Lane County Sheriff’s Mounted Posse will be on-hand at Orchard Point and Richardson parks.
“We enjoy getting to volunteer at community events,” said Posse volunteer Alan Murphy. “It allows us to serve our community by helping people be safe – and everyone really enjoys seeing and interacting with the volunteers and their horses.”
Drought conditions and an early start to fire season in the Willamette Valley require residents to exercise extreme caution with any flammable items Fourth of July, whether celebrating at a local park or at home.
“If you plan to use fireworks at home you should also have a plan to minimize the risk of injury and wildfire,” said Lane Fire Authority’s Lieutenant Tressa Miller. “Even sparklers burn at about 2,000 degrees and we want everyone to celebrate safely.”
Fireworks safety tips:
- Never try to re-light or pick up fireworks that have not ignited fully.
- Never point or throw fireworks at another person.
- Keep a bucket of water or a garden hose handy in case of fire.
- Never shoot fireworks off in metal or glass containers.
- Submerge the spent device in a bucket of water for several minutes to prevent a trash fire.
Remember: fireworks are not allowed in any Lane County-owned or maintained park, including Armitage Park, Harbor Vista Campground, Orchard Point Park and Richardson Park. People found to be using fireworks in Lane County Parks may be removed. Park gates will close at 9:00 p.m. for day use areas.
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