As summer celebrations ramp up across Oregon, fireworks often play a major role in the fun. But with the beauty of fireworks comes real risk—especially during Oregon’s increasingly dry wildfire seasons. At Elliott, Powell, Baden & Baker, we want to ensure you’re not only enjoying your festivities, but also staying safe and protecting what matters most—your home, family, and community.

Fireworks and Fire Risk in Oregon

Oregon law allows the sale and use of legal fireworks from June 23 through July 6. These include fountains, flitter sparklers, ground spinners, and wheels. However, fireworks that explode, fly into the air, or behave unpredictably—such as bottle rockets, Roman candles, and firecrackers—are illegal in Oregon, even if purchased out of state.

Given the increasing threat of wildfires—especially in the drier regions of our state—many counties and cities in Oregon enforce additional restrictions, or full bans, regardless of what’s allowed at the state level.

 Safety Tips for Fireworks Use in Oregon

• Use only Oregon-legal fireworks, and purchase them from licensed vendors.
• Never use fireworks on or near dry grass, trees, or structures.
• Keep a bucket of water or hose nearby in case of fire.
• Supervise children closely and never allow unsupervised use.
• Avoid lighting fireworks on windy days.
• Dispose of used fireworks in a bucket of water overnight before discarding.

Is Fire Damage Covered by Insurance?

In most cases, homeowners insurance policies in Oregon do cover fire damage, including accidental fires caused by fireworks—as long as the fireworks used are legal. If illegal fireworks are involved, your coverage could be denied. That’s why it’s critical to know and follow Oregon regulations.

1. Dwelling Coverage: This part of your policy typically covers damage to the structure of your home. For example, if a legal firework, such as a wayward firework, lands on your roof and causes a fire that damages your home, this coverage would usually apply.
2. Personal Property Coverage: This policy covers your personal belongings inside the home. If a fire caused by legal fireworks damages your personal property, this coverage can help pay for the replacement or repair of those items.
3. Liability Coverage:  If a guest or neighbor suffers an injury caused by unintentional actions involving fireworks, your policy’s liability coverage may help cover medical expenses and legal fees if necessary. 
4. Exclusions and Limitations:  Homeowners insurance policies have exclusions or limitations. Always refer to your insurance contract for these items.  Examples of exclusions could include illegal acts or injury to a resident or family member.

 Contact our team to review your homeowners insurance policy. This proactive step will empower you with the knowledge of what is and isn’t covered regarding fireworks-related damage, giving you peace of mind so you can relax and celebrate safely this holiday. 

Summer is the season of road trips, family getaways, and long-awaited vacations—but while you’re relaxing poolside or hiking in the mountains, it’s important to know your home back in Oregon is protected. At Elliott, Powell, Baden & Baker, we want you to enjoy your time away with peace of mind. Here are key steps you can take to protect your home before you leave—and how your homeowners insurance policy helps safeguard you from the unexpected.

Secure Before You Go

A few simple precautions can significantly reduce the risk of damage or theft while your home is unoccupied:

• Lock all doors and windows. Don’t forget garage access points or basement windows.
  
• Set timers on lights. A few strategic lights on a schedule can give the appearance that someone is home.
  
• Pause mail and deliveries. An overflowing mailbox is a signal to burglars that a house is empty.
  
• Let a trusted neighbor know. Ask them to keep an eye on your home and collect any unexpected packages that may arrive.
  
• Unplug electronics. This helps avoid fire risk and protects your devices from power surges.
  
• Turn off the main water supply. Water damage from leaks or appliance malfunctions is one of the most common—and costly—types of vacation-related claims.

What Does Your Oregon Homeowners Policy Cover?

If you have a standard homeowners policy through EPB&B, you can rest assured that your property is generally covered while you’re away, but it’s good to understand the details:

• Theft or vandalism: Most policies cover stolen belongings or property damage resulting from break-ins, provided there is evidence of forced entry.
  
• Fire and smoke damage: Fires that occur while you are absent are typically covered, subject to policy limits.
  
• Water damage (with caveats): Damage from sudden, accidental leaks (e.g., a burst pipe) is typically covered; however, ongoing leaks or damage resulting from neglect may not be. Check with an EPB&B agent to see if you have a seepage/leakage endorsement on your policy. Shutting off the water helps avoid this gray area.
  
• Liability: If someone is injured on your property while you’re gone ( i.e, a landscaper or neighbor checking on your home), your personal liability coverage would likely apply.
  

 What May Not Be Covered?

Understanding exclusions is just as important as knowing what’s covered. Here are a few scenarios where coverage could be limited or denied:

• Neglect or deferred maintenance: Losses resulting from preventable issues, such as unrepaired roof damage or faulty locks, may be excluded.
• Extended vacancies: If your home is vacant for more than 30 to 60 days, your policy’s vacancy clause may reduce or void certain coverages. It’s crucial to notify your insurer in advance.

 Before You Leave, Review Your Policy

Every homeowner’s policy is different. Before you head out on your trip, we recommend scheduling a quick review with your EPB&B agent. We can help:

• Confirm your current coverage
• Identify any gaps or exclusions
• Recommend optional protections (e.g., service line coverage or discounts for smart home monitoring)

Wherever your summer adventures take you, Elliott, Powell, Baden & Baker is here to help protect what matters most—your home and your peace of mind.

Summer in Oregon means sunshine, outdoor adventures, and, unfortunately, the start of wildfire season. With record-breaking heat and increasingly dry conditions becoming more common across the state, wildfire risk is on the rise. Over the past five years, Oregon has experienced several destructive wildfires, including the 2020 Labor Day fires that burned more than 1 million acres, destroyed over 4,000 homes and structures, and became some of the most devastating in state history.

As we prepare for another dry summer in 2025, now is the time to ask: Is your homeowners’ insurance ready to protect your home and belongings in the event of a wildfire?

At Elliott, Powell, Baden & Baker Insurance, our experienced Personal Lines team is here to help Oregonians like you understand exactly what your policy covers—and just as importantly, what it doesn’t. We’ll review your current coverage, identify any gaps or limitations, and ensure you have the proper protection in place for the season ahead.

What Does Homeowners Insurance Typically Cover in the Event of a Wildfire?

Most standard homeowners insurance policies in Oregon include wildfire protection, but it’s essential to understand each component of your policy:

Be Proactive. Be Protected.

With wildfires becoming more frequent and intense in Oregon, being proactive about your insurance coverage is one of the smartest steps you can take. The team at EPB&B Insurance is here to provide personalized, expert guidance to ensure your coverage keeps pace with changing risks. Contact us today for a free policy review and stay fire-ready this summer.