Playing it safe with fireworks

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Story Published: Jun 24, 2009 at 4:27 PM PST

By Elissa Harrington

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EUGENE, Ore - Fireworks can be a fire hazard if you don't play it safe. So just what is legal? KVAL asked the experts.

"A legal firework would be something that has a spark, fire or smoke but does not explode, shoot off balls of fire or shoot into the air," says EPd Spokeswoman Melinda Kletzok.

Fireworks also cannot travel more than 6 feet across the ground and 12 inches into the air.

Unlawful sale and possession of fireworks could result in felony charges.

To make sure you're buying safe fireworks, purchase them from a legally licensed tent. Fire Marshals inspect these tents and make sure everything is safe and legal.

Fire Marshals say their biggest concern is the weather. "We've had several days of nice weather and it's expected to continue," says Amy Linder, a deputy Fire Marshal with the City of Eugene.

"We have the light flashy fuels, the grasses and the brush that dries out quickly and then we can get something set on fire and it spreads very quickly."

When lighting fireworks, choose a cleared out area. Light one firework at a time. Only let an adult set them off. Have a hose and bucket on hand. Extinguish the fireworks in the bucket of water once they are safely out.

Linder says when in doubt, follow the 3 B's. Be prepared, be safe, and be responsible.

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