Arson Awareness Week: Prevent Youth Firesetting

The Oregon Office of State Fire Marshal is pleased to partner with U.S. Fire Administration (USFA), the International Association of Arson Investigators (IAAI), Safe Kids USA, USAonWatch, National Volunteer Fire Council (NVFC), and the National Association of State Fire Marshals to announce the theme for the May 6-12, 2012, Arson Awareness Week (AAW): Prevent Youth Firesetting. This year's theme is intended to raise public awareness of the collaborative effort with fire and emergency service departments, law enforcement, mental health, social services, schools, and juvenile justice to help reduce the incidents of youth misusing fire. Oregon data shows there were more than 500 reported youth set fires in 2010-2011. The majority of these fires were started by youths from 10-15 years of age. "Most people don't realize the serious consequences of youth-set fire behavior," said Oregon Chief Deputy State Marshal Jim Walker. "Whether it's a young child misusing a cigarette lighter or a teen setting a fire for the fun of it, these behaviors are risky, can be deadly, and result in thousands of dollars in property loss." Parents need to be aware they may be held financially responsible for property damage or injuries resulting from a youth-set fire. Youths should be aware they could be cited with a criminal offense for setting an intentional fire (e.g. arson or reckless burning) and face serious legal, financial, and emotional consequences. Youths who do not understand the power of fire can be seriously burned. Here are some fire safety tips for parents/caregivers: * If your teens have a fascination with fire, check their bedroom for matches, lighters, flammable liquids, fireworks, and other devices. * Monitor the internet sites your teen frequents. * If your teen burns candles or incense, be sure to set clear rules that these items must be extinguished before leaving the room or going to bed. * Keep matches and lighters out of sight and reach of young children at all times. * Have working smoke alarms in your home and practice a home escape plan. If you are concerned because your child repeatedly sets fires, contact your local fire department now, before tragedy occurs. Oregon has an effective, well-developed network of concerned firefighters, law enforcement officers, and counselors.

Oregon Fireworks - keep it legal and keep it safe

The Office of State Fire Marshal (OSFM), Oregon fire service, natural resource agencies, Oregon fireworks wholesalers, and safety experts encourage Oregonians to keep it legal and keep it safe when using fireworks. The 2011 Oregon fireworks sales season opens today, June 23 and runs through July 6. The OSFM and their partners want everyone to know what are legal fireworks in Oregon, where they are permitted, and the important steps everyone can take for fireworks safety.

"Legal fireworks may be purchased only from Oregon permitted fireworks retailers and stands," advises Interim State Fire Marshal Jim Walker. "And regulations limit where those fireworks may be used. For example, fireworks are prohibited on all Oregon beaches, in parks, and campgrounds."

Oregon law bans possession, use or sale of fireworks that fly, explode or travel more than six feet on the ground or 12 inches into the air. Fireworks commonly called bottle rockets, Roman Candles, and firecrackers are ILLEGAL in Oregon.

Under Oregon law, officials may seize illegal fireworks and fine offenders up to $500 per violation. Those who misuse fireworks or allow fireworks to cause damage are liable and may be required to pay fire suppression costs or other damage. Parents are also liable for fireworks damage caused by their children.

There were 117 reported fireworks-related fires in Oregon during 2010, resulting in more than $1.6 million in property damage. Over the past five years from 2006 through 2010 there were 1,057 reported fireworks-related fires in Oregon resulting in one death, 62 civilian injuries, and more than $4.7 million in property damage.

"All Oregonians share the responsibility to use only legal fireworks and use them carefully," adds Walker.

The OSFM encourages everyone to use the four Bs of safe fireworks use:
*Be Prepared before lighting fireworks: keep water available by using a garden hose or bucket.
*Be Safe when lighting fireworks: keep children and pets away from fireworks.
*Be Responsible after lighting fireworks: never relight a dud. Wait 15 to 20 minutes then soak in a bucket of water before disposal.
*Be Aware: use only legal fireworks and use them only in legal places.

The four B's of fireworks safety brochure is available here:
http://www.oregon.gov/OSP/SFM/docs/Licensing_permits/fireworks/4BesFireworks.pdf.

Tips in Spanish are also available at: http://www.oregon.gov/OSP/SFM/docs/Licensing_permits/fireworks/Fireworks_4Bs_Spanish.pdf.

More fireworks information is available at:
http://www.oregon.gov/OSP/SFM/Licensing_Fireworks_Home.shtml