Portland crews saw fewer fires sparked by fireworks in 2024

PORTLAND, Ore. (KOIN) – Portland Fire & Rescue released preliminary data on the 2024 fireworks season on Wednesday-- showing a decrease in fires caused by fireworks.

Fireworks season was established years ago when personal fireworks were allowed within the City of Portland, PF&R explained. The season begins when personal fireworks are for sale in areas surrounding Portland, where personal fireworks are banned.

While data for the 2024 fireworks season is tentative, officials said so far, there's been a decrease in fires sparked by personal fireworks.

According to PF&R's data for the 2024 fireworks season, between June 23 and July 6, 29 fires were caused by fireworks, 14 of which occurred on the Fourth of July. No injuries were reported in the preliminary data set. However, KOIN 6 News previously reported one person was hospitalized after a fire broke out on a fireworks barge at the Waterfront Blues Festival.

During the 2023 Fireworks Season, 46 fires were caused by fireworks, four of which were structure fires, and two were vehicle fires. On the Fourth of July, 30 out of the 46 fires occurred – including two structure fires, and one vehicle fire. No injuries were reported from these incidents.

In 2022, PF&R reported 10 fires caused by fireworks, two of which caused structure fires and three were vehicle fires. No injuries were reported.