No boom: Fireworks banned on BLM land in Washington

VANCOUVER, Wash. (AP) — The Bureau of Land Management has banned all fireworks and exploding targets on BLM-managed lands in Washington and Oregon.

The Columbian reports that the ban went into effect on Monday.

The announcement comes as officials brace for what's expected to be a long, difficult fire season in the Northwest due to drought conditions.

The ban will remain in effect until Oct. 15.

People who ignite fireworks or exploding targets on BLM lands could face fines of up to $1,000, a prison term of up to one year, or both.

Anyone who starts a wildfire can also billed for the cost of fighting them.

Long-term forecasts call for a warm, dry summer across Washington and Oregon.