City & Government, Springfield

City of Springfield shares safety tips for Fourth of July holiday

The City of Springfield is taking a holistic approach to ensure the safety and enjoyment of our community as we approach the 4th of July holiday. Recognizing the increased risks associated with fireworks and the heightened threat of wildfires, the City, in collaboration with Eugene Springfield Fire, the Springfield Police Department, and Springfield Animal Control, has implemented several measures to protect residents and property while promoting a fun and festive celebration.

Consumer fireworks safety education

The City is actively engaging the community through social media platforms to share essential safety tips and guidelines for handling consumer fireworks. This educational campaign aims to inform residents about the safe and responsible use of fireworks to prevent accidents and injuries.

Key safety considerations for fireworks

Purchase Legal Fireworks: Buy fireworks only from licensed vendors to ensure they meet safety standards.

• Read Instructions: Carefully read and follow all instructions on the fireworks packaging.

• Designate a Safe Area: Set off fireworks in a clear, open area away from buildings, dry grass, trees, and other combustibles.

• Keep Water Handy: Always have a bucket of water or a hose nearby in case of a fire.

• Adult Supervision: Ensure that an adult is present to supervise all firework activities.

• Light One at a Time: Light fireworks one at a time and move back quickly.

• Never Relight Duds: If a firework does not ignite, do not attempt to relight it. Wait 20 minutes and then soak it in water.

• Maintain a Safe Distance: Spectators should keep a safe distance from the fireworks launch site.

• Protect Your Body: Never hold fireworks in your hand or point them at another person. • Wear safety glasses to protect your eyes.

• Dispose of Properly: Soak used fireworks in water before disposing of them in a metal trash can.

• Avoid Alcohol: Do not consume alcohol while handling or lighting fireworks.

Be Mindful of Pets: Keep pets indoors and away from fireworks, as they can be frightened by the noise and flashes.

Compliance inspections of firework stands,  vendors 

Deputy Fire Marshals are conducting thorough inspections of all consumer firework stands and vendors to ensure compliance with safety regulations. These inspections are crucial in preventing the sale of illegal and unsafe fireworks.

Additional Staffing During Red Flag Days 

In response to the high wildfire threat during red flag days, Eugene Springfield Fire will increase staffing levels. This ensures a rapid and effective response to any fire-related emergencies, enhancing our ability to protect lives and property.

Illegal firework amnesty days 

In collaboration with local law enforcement, the City is hosting illegal firework amnesty days on July 4th and 5th at fire stations 2 and 3. This initiative provides an opportunity for residents to turn in illegal fireworks without penalty, helping to reduce the risk of fire hazards.

For community questions about fireworks, please contact the Eugene Springfield Fire Marshal’s Office during business hours, Monday – Friday, 8 a.m.-4 p.m., at 541-682-5411.

Springfield Police Department Initiatives

For most people, the 4th of July brings thoughts of family get-togethers, fireworks, BBQs, and fun. For police officers, it often means calls for service involving drunken fights, domestic disputes, intoxicated drivers, vehicle crashes, and shots fired. To address these issues, Springfield PD will have increased staffing and will be patrolling neighborhoods and the Light of Liberty celebration as usual.

Illegal fireworks pose a significant danger and create extreme fire hazards. Possession of illegal fireworks, which include firecrackers, bottle rockets, and roman candles, is a class B misdemeanor with a maximum penalty of $2,500 and six months in jail. Please be mindful of neighbors who may be sensitive to loud noises, including combat veterans who can be impacted by the sounds and sights of fireworks.

Pet Safety

Springfield Animal Control reminds residents to take extra care of their pets during the 4th of July celebrations. The noise can be distressing for sensitive pets, so it is advisable to keep them indoors. If you are away from home, play music or the television to help keep them calm. For additional calming suggestions, contact your pet’s veterinarian.

Many pets go missing during this time of year. If your pet is missing, please contact the non-emergency police line at 541-726-3714 or Springfield Animal Control at 541-726-3634. If you find a lost pet, you may also call these numbers to see if someone has listed it as missing. Please exercise caution when approaching an unfamiliar animal.

All dogs living within Springfield city limits must be licensed. Applications for dog licenses can be obtained by calling Springfield Animal Control at 541-726-3634 or visiting the Animal Services section of the Springfield website. Cats should have identification or be kept indoors.

—  Elyse Ditzel, Public Information Officer for the City of Springfield

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