NEWS RELEASE
For Immediate Release
Contact: Laura Pramuk 503-668-1791
Twitter: @forestservice
Celebrate the Fourth, but Please Leave the Fireworks at Home!
Sandy, OR – June 28, 2019
For many, the Fourth of July means celebrating our country’s independence with barbecues, camping, and of course fireworks. The Mt. Hood National Forest encourages the public to enjoy the holiday weekend, but to do so safely – and to be especially mindful of wildfire prevention on your public lands. While there are no campfire restrictions at this time, campers are encouraged to think carefully before starting a campfire and to take measures to ensure that their fire burns safely and is thoroughly extinguished before leaving camp.
Visitors to national forests should always use caution to prevent human-caused wildfires. To reduce wildfire risk, please consider the following:
- Fireworks are never allowed on federal public lands. This includes smaller consumer fireworks such as sparklers, firecrackers, bottle rockets, and smoke balls.
- Before camping, learn of any fire restrictions in place and never leave a campfire unattended. Build campfires in open areas, preferably in existing fire rings. Make sure campfires are fully out and cool to the touch before leaving the area. (Please use the water and shovel technique.)
- When smoking, always dispose of cigarette debris in an ashtray.
- Avoid driving and parking in tall grasses. Exhaust particles and hot exhaust pipes can start grass fires. Even chains dragging along the ground, such as those on ATVs, can spark fires.
Richard Periman, Mt. Hood National Forest Supervisor says, “Enjoy your national forest, but please, leave the fireworks at home!”
There are many events taking place this holiday weekend during which the public can enjoy some amazing firework displays in nearby communities. The Forest encourages visitors to check out local fireworks shows, including:
Estacada Timber Festival: July 4, PGE Timber Park, Estacada
Fort Dalles Fourth Fireworks: June 30, The Dalles
Hood River Independence Day Festivities: July 4, Hood River Waterfront, Hood River
Happy Valley Family Festival: July 4, Happy Valley Park, Happy Valley
Portland Blues Festival and Fireworks Displays: July 4, Tom McCall Waterfront Park, Portland
Numerous road repair and improvement projects have begun or will begin in July. As you plan your Fourth of July visit to the Mt. Hood National Forest please be aware that there may be short delays, flagging, or closures that could impact your planned route. Check our Roads Table for current and upcoming road work or contact a Ranger District Visitor’s Center before beginning your journey. Road conditions vary greatly across the Forest and some roads may be used for log hauling. Please use caution on rough roads and roads where large equipment may be present.
The employees of the Mt. Hood National Forest wish everyone a safe, fun holiday weekend and encourage you to explore our beautiful public lands.
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