Editor’s note: Camas and Washougal banned the sale of fireworks on Tuesday.
The cities of Battle Ground, Camas and Washougal announced a fireworks discharge ban due to extremely high fire risk effective immediately. Fireworks sales will still be allowed.
“This was a very difficult decision to make, but in consideration of the elevated fire danger, it was deemed the only decision possible to ensure the safety of our neighborhoods, communities and green spaces,” said Camas-Washougal Fire Department Fire Chief Nick Swinhart. “The threat of fireworks causing a fire in these extreme conditions is too high to allow the use of fireworks this July 4th.”
Camas Mayor Pro-Tem Ellen Burton, in consultation with the fire chief and fire marshal, implemented the ban in Camas, according to a news release from the Camas-Washougal Fire Department.
The fine for illegally discharging fireworks is $250 for the first incident, and each recurring violation will increase the fine amount. The police and fire departments plan on extra patrols in response to illegal fireworks complaints.
Residents who observe illegal fireworks discharges are asked to call 311.
Sales and use of fireworks are banned in Vancouver. La Center and Ridgefield banned the discharge of fireworks on Friday, due to the fire danger.
“This decision was not taken lightly, and we recognize the impact this has on our community and local organizations in their fundraising efforts,” said Chris Drone, Clark County Fire District No. 3 in a statement about the Battle Ground ban. “We continue to encourage everyone to celebrate Independence Day with family and friends, just without fireworks this year. We want to thank everyone for our continued partnership in fire prevention.”
