Fire agencies cracking down on fireworks safety

Medford, Ore.– The Discount Fireworks tent is loaded with Fourth of July, a sign of the season.

“I came to get ‘Piccolo Petes’ or’ Screamers’ actually. I like the way that they sound,” said Juan Escoto.

Monday was the first day of the two week fireworks sales season in Oregon. But this year fire agencies want you to be extra cautious because of the extremely dry conditions.

Vendors like Earnest Forsythe are spreading the word.

“We always want to be safe when it comes to fireworks from not hurting people and to be safe to where you don’t light fires,” said Forsythe.

Forsythe has been selling fireworks for three decadesand said for the first time, the FireMarshalcame around with a stern warning.

“If you don’t want them to be outlawed then spread the news that the illegal ones if they start fires. They’re going to make these not be legal.”

According to the state Fire Marshal, fireworks started nearly 200 fires in Oregon in 2013. And Forsythe fears a ban could be ahead if people aren’t smart about the way they celebrate.

Juan Escoto said when it comes to his Fourth of July fun…he’ll follow the rules.

“I mean everybody’s going to be safe everybody’s going to obey the laws. So I don’t have any concerns in that.”

The Oregon Fire Marshal reports a fine could cost you up to $500.00 per violation.

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