July 2, 2026, REDMOND, OR- Redmond Fire & Rescue, is urging extreme caution this Fourth of July due to dangerously dry conditions and a heightened risk of wildfire. With fuels critically dry across Central Oregon, even a small spark can quickly ignite and spread, threatening homes, neighborhoods, and open land. Fire officials are especially concerned about fireworks-related fires and preventable injuries as the holiday approaches.
One of the most common and dangerous situations fire crews respond to involves “spent” fireworks that are improperly disposed of—often placed in grocery bags where they can smolder, reignite, and quickly spread fire to fences, decks, and homes.
The safest way to celebrate is to eliminate the risk altogether.
Attend a professional fireworks display, such as the show at the Deschutes County Fairgrounds, where trained crews manage the event under controlled conditions.
Residents can also safely dispose of unwanted fireworks—legal or illegal—at any Redmond Fire & Rescue station.
If you choose to use fireworks, it is critical to understand both the legal requirements and the significant fire risk posed by current conditions.
Oregon law prohibits fireworks that fly, explode, or travel across the ground more than six feet, or rise more than 12 inches into the air.
This includes items such as, mortars, bottle rockets, roman candles, firecrackers, and M-80s.
Fireworks must be purchased from licensed Oregon retailers. Fireworks obtained through mail order, from Washington, or from tribal reservations are illegal within Oregon.
Even legal fireworks present serious hazards. Many fires are caused by careless use or improper disposal. Fireworks can severely injure users—especially unsupervised children. Even sparklers, often considered harmless, can burn at temperatures reaching 1,200 degrees—hot enough to ignite dry vegetation instantly.
Safety Tips –
- Only adults should handle and light fireworks; always supervise children.
- Keep fireworks, matches, and lighters out of reach of children.
- Use fireworks only on paved, non-flammable surfaces, far from dry grass, buildings, vehicles, and vegetation.
- Never point or throw fireworks at people, pets, or structures.
- Never try to relight a “dud.”
- Never alter fireworks or create your own.
- Keep a charged hose nearby and fully extinguish all used fireworks by soaking them in a metal bucket filled with water.
Legal Consequences
Using illegal fireworks or using any fireworks improperly carries serious penalties:
- Fines up to $500 per violation and up to 6 months in jail
- Up to $1,500 within Redmond city limits, and up to $6,000 for repeat offenses
- Possible criminal charges including reckless burning, reckless endangerment, and criminal mischief
- Civil liability for any fire or damage caused
- Fire suppression costs may be billed to those responsible
- Insurance may not cover damages resulting from illegal activity
Parents may also be held financially responsible for damage caused by their children.
Reporting Fireworks
Please do not call 911 to report fireworks use unless there is an active emergency. Keeping emergency lines open is critical during fire season.
Non-emergency concerns can be reported by:
- Email: reportfireworks@redmondoregon.gov
- Phone: 541-693-6911
This year, the risk is not normal—it is extreme.
Choosing safe alternatives and handling fireworks responsibly can prevent devastating wildfires and protect our community.
