Fire departments and police agencies throughout the region are asking citizens to follow some common sense rules for a safe Fourth of July weekend.

Last year, Oregon had 188 fires caused by fireworks. It’s not a kid problem. Adults accounted for four out five of the fires, according to Lt. Dave Okada of the Salem Police Department.

KGW

A few reminders

The only fireworks that can legally be sold in Oregon may not fly, explode or travel in an uncontrolled manner six feet along the ground or 12 inches into the air. Violators face a fine of up to $500.

You start a fire, you might end up paying for the costs of putting it out. Same thing if your kid starts a fire.

Legal fireworks sales in Oregon this year end on July 6th.

Fireworks are not allowed in any state park, Oregon beach or federal park or forest.

It’s illegal, a felony offense, to alter fireworks.

Shooting a gun into the air means two things. One, the bullet comes down and might injure someone. Depending on your location, it’s illegal to fire a gun.

Okay. Time to fire them up. Go through this safety check list.

- You bought them from a reliable vendor and you’ve read the safety instructions.

- You have a garden hose or a bucket of water nearby.

- Only responsible adults are lighting the fireworks.

- You’re on a flat, hard surface, away from dry grass or other things that catch fire really easily.

- You’re not wearing loose clothing.

- Pets are in a safe place.

- Bystanders are a safe distance away.

- Uh oh. A dud. Don’t try to keep lighting it. Put it in water for 15 minutes before trashing it.

- Some fireworks have a delay. Don’t move towards one you’ve lit that's stopped firing for a moment.

- Treat minor burns with cool water and go to the hospital for severe burns.