The City of Happy Valley is partnering with residents, the Happy Valley Police Department, and the Clackamas County Sheriff’s Office to host an illegal fireworks takeback event on July 1, 2 and 3.
  
From 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. on the designated days, residents can drop off illegal fireworks at the Happy Valley Community Policing Center, located at 12915 SE King Rd. A receptacle will be placed near the front doors of the Policing Center and community members can dispose of illegal fireworks without judgment. Drop offs can be done anonymously and no questions will be asked.
 
While fireworks are the Fourth of July’s hallmark feature, serious catastrophes inevitably ensue when safety precautions and the law are ignored. Severe accidents leading to personal injury, property damage, and wildfires can occur with one simple mishap and threaten the safety of residents and the City’s protected green spaces. 

Happy Valley adopted a zero-tolerance policy for illegal fireworks nearly 15 years ago and its Fireworks Task Force remains vigilant in the days leading up to the holiday to help mitigate safety concerns. A firm $1,000 citation will be issued on the spot if someone is found to be using illegal fireworks within City limits. Criminal charges may also result. Complaints due to illegal fireworks are naturally higher this time of year in Happy Valley, so the City is hopeful this program will encourage residents to discard their illegal fireworks without the fear of penalty.

“The safety of our community is paramount,” said Steve Campbell, the City’s Public Safety Director. “We’re encouraging anyone in the possession of illegal fireworks to voluntarily surrender them at the takeback event and help in safeguarding our residents and neighborhoods.” The City has also emphasized the importance of being compassionate toward residents who find fireworks use to be frightening and disruptive. Fireworks activity can be particularly unpleasant for pets, veterans, children, and people struggling with challenges related to mental health.

Residents in Happy Valley are encouraged to report illegal fireworks use by calling the non-emergency police line at 503-655-8211. Residents are asked to ONLY CALL 9-1-1 if there is an ongoing emergency that endangers life or is causing active harm to personal property. Using 9-1-1 because of distant fireworks, in an unknown place, occupies these vital lines and could slow down emergency assistance to others who need it.