Vancouver, WA – The Fire Marshal’s Office urges residents and visitors to celebrate the 4th of July with extra caution because of the extremely dry conditions throughout Clark County. “Under the current conditions, with the dry fuels and continued hot weather in the forecast, I strongly encourage folks to enjoy a professional fireworks display, such as the one at Fort Vancouver,” said Jon Dunaway, Clark County Fire Marshal. “Using consumer fireworks will be hazardous this year, especially in rural areas of the county where the wildfire danger is highest. The safest thing would be to leave it to the pros.” If you are going to buy fireworks at one of the stands, Dunaway recommends buying devices that will not travel from the launch area. Steer away from helicopters, aerial spinners and parachute devices that travel with the wind and could land in grass or trees. Also steer clear of Jumping Jacks, which bounce on the ground. “Look for fireworks that will stay within the discharge area, which should be free of trees, tall grasses, shrubs, fences and, of course, buildings,” Dunaway said. For areas with tight constraints, fountains are a good choice. If you plan to buy fireworks, the best option is to buy them locally from a stand that has been inspected and approved by the Fire Marshal. Fireworks purchased outside the county might not be legal to use. Fireworks will go on sale Sunday, June 28, in the unincorporated area of Clark County, as well as Amboy and Yacolt. Fireworks safety tips include: • Always have a bucket of water and charged water hose handy. • Dispose of fireworks by soaking them in water and placing them in a metal trash can away from buildings or combustible materials. • A responsible adult should supervise all fireworks use. • Use fireworks outdoors in a clear area away from buildings and vehicles. For more information, go to www.clark.wa.gov/development/fire/fireworks.html