BEND, OR -- Bend Police officers and Fire inspectors will team up this summer, to crack down on illegal fireworks. The task force will patrol areas in the city with a history of a high number of illegal fireworks calls. They’ll also respond to fireworks calls, as they’re able. Targeted patrols are scheduled for June 27 and 28, and July third, fifth and sixth. 

Fireworks enforcement was identified as a City Council priority, this year, as part of a comprehensive wildfire resilience plan. Last year’s Fourth of July fire on Pilot Butte is blamed on illegal fireworks. 

In Oregon, fireworks that explode, fly more than 12 inches in to the air or move laterally more than six feet are illegal to possess and use. Click HERE for more information and safety tips. Last month, Bend Fire launched a series of public service announcements urging people to use only legal fireworks.