Fireworks go on sale today

Local residents can buy fireworks for the upcoming Fourth of July holiday beginning today, but depending on where they live might have to wait a bit to set them off.

Fireworks can be legally discharged in Camas city limits today, from noon to 11 p.m.; Wednesday through Sunday, from 9 a.m. to 11 p.m.; Monday, from 9 a.m. to midnight, and July 5, from 9 a.m. to 11 p.m.

In unincorporated Clark County, fireworks can be discharged today, from noon to 11 p.m., Wednesday through Sunday, from 9 a.m. to 11 p.m., and on July 4 from 9 a.m. to midnight.

In Washougal, fireworks can only be set off on Monday, between 9 a.m. and midnight.

Legal fireworks in Washington include items such as sparklers and spinners, cones and fountains, roman candles, and re-loadable mortars — 1 3/4 inches or smaller.

Illegal fireworks include anything bought on tribal lands such as firecrackers and chasers, bottle rockets, and missiles and rockets. In addition, explosive devices such as M-80s, cherry bombs and tennis ball bombs, dry ice bombs, or any legal firework that has been altered are all considered illegal.

Fire officials recommend keeping a garden hose and bucket of water nearby when discharging fireworks.

In 2012, fireworks laws are set to change in Camas. Earlier this year the Camas City Council approved a resolution reducing the number of days fireworks are allowed to be sold and discharged within city limits each calendar year, but those don’t apply until July 2012.

Fire Marshall Randy Miller has said vendors selling fireworks now have been asked to help educate customers about the changes for next Fourth of July.

Violation of fireworks laws, a misdemeanor, can result in a fine of up to $500 and/or jail time of up to 30 days, according to the ordinance.