As July 4th approaches, fire and public-safety officials in Portland are urging residents to adhere to the city’s ban on the use and sale of fireworks.
This advisory comes in light of the typical spike in emergency calls during the holiday, which sees call volumes doubling compared to a standard day.
In a press conference held at Fire & Rescue Station 21, officials were joined by medical professionals and a military veteran, who spoke about how fireworks can adversely affect individuals with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) as well as pets.
Rick Graves, a spokesperson for Portland Fire & Rescue, emphasized the seriousness of the situation, stating, “Don’t think, ‘This doesn’t apply to me.’ It’s not silly. It’s for the safety of everybody in our community, whether it be a pet owner, whether it be your pet, whether it be your neighbor who has PTSD, for whatever reason.”
In 2022, the Portland City Council implemented a permanent ban on personal fireworks, a measure taken in response to two tragic fires attributed to fireworks, including one incident in 2021 that resulted in three fatalities.
Early indications suggest that the ban may be having a positive impact.
Data from last year shows that on July 4th, of the 38 fires reported to the Portland Fire Bureau, only 14 were caused by fireworks, a notable decrease from 2023, when 30 of 67 fires were linked to fireworks.
Nonetheless, the potential dangers remain, as demonstrated by a recent fire ignited by a firework in the Hazelwood neighborhood, prompting officials to seek out the teens responsible for this violation of the city’s fireworks ban.
Graves warned that those caught using fireworks could face significant fines and possible jail time for any damages incurred.
City Councilor Steve Novick noted that the police will actively enforce the ban, with Police Chief Bob Day emphasizing that officers will seize any fireworks they observe being used and issue citations as necessary.
“He’s emphasizing that,” Novick remarked.
To help alleviate pressure on the emergency communications network, Jaymee Cuti, a spokesperson for Portland’s 911 system, encouraged residents to utilize an online form for reporting non-emergency complaints regarding fireworks.
The psychological toll of fireworks is significant, particularly for veterans suffering from PTSD.
Malcolm Hoover, a staff member at Portland Parks and Recreation and a military veteran, shared his experience, noting that the sounds of gunfire or explosions can trigger traumatic memories related to his service.
He explained, “Any of these sounds, sights or smells may serve as trauma reminders.”
Dr. Jonathan Betlinski, the public psychiatry director at Oregon Health & Science University, elaborated that for veterans, fireworks can invoke recollections of combat and explosions, while they might remind others of terrifying events related to intense fires or gun violence.
Dr. Steve Kochis, chief medical officer and interim CEO of the Oregon Humane Society, further discussed the impact of fireworks on pets.
He explained that animals, unable to comprehend the situation, often feel compelled to escape in distress.
Novick shared that he spends countless hours every July 4th trying to comfort his dog and prevent him from damaging the house in response to the noise.
Kochis offered recommendations for pet owners, suggesting they keep windows and curtains shut while using fans or white noise machines to drown out the sounds and sights of fireworks.
Some neighboring cities have adopted their own bans on personal fireworks, including Milwaukie, Eugene, and Vancouver, which all enforce year-round restrictions.
Graves concluded the press conference by encouraging the public to attend professional firework displays instead, highlighting events scheduled for July 4th at the downtown Waterfront Blues Festival and Oaks Amusement Park.
“There’s great shows to watch,” he said, appealing for community compliance with the ban to ensure a safe and enjoyable holiday.
image source from：oregonlive
