For Immediate Release

Friday, June 24, 2016

Contact: John Guilfoil
Phone: 617-993-0003
Email: john@jgpr.net

*Joint Release* Merrimac Police and Fire Remind Residents that Fireworks are Illegal in Massachusetts

MERRIMAC — With the Fourth of July approaching, Police Chief Eric M. Shears and Fire Chief Ralph Spencer would like to remind residents that all use of fireworks in the state of Massachusetts is illegal.

It is illegal to use, possess, or sell fireworks of any kind in Massachusetts, including Class C fireworks, which are sometimes falsely called “safe and sane fireworks.” Class C fireworks include sparklers, party poppers, snappers, firecrackers, spinners, cherry bombs and more. Citizens are also prohibited from purchasing fireworks elsewhere and then transporting them into the state.

Additionally, while the government cannot prohibit the advertising and sale of fireworks by mail, police can and will confiscate illegal shipments. Many consumers attempting to circumvent the law have lost both their money and their fireworks.

“Please be safe, aware, and cautious this Fourth of July and throughout the summer” Chief Shears said. “Those found in possession of fireworks face confiscation and a $100 fine.”

The Office of the State Fire Marshal reports that from 2006-2015, there were 775 major fire and explosion incidents involving illegal fireworks reported to the Massachusetts Fire Incident Reporting System. These incidents caused 11 civilian injuries, four fire service injuries and an estimated dollar loss of $1.8 million.

This doesn’t mean citizens cannot enjoy fireworks displays this holiday weekend and in the future. However, Chief Eric M. Shears and the Merrimac Police Department recommend that residents only attend celebrations put on by a licensed professional to ensure safety for all.

“Fireworks can cause serious injury or harm when used incorrectly,” Chief Spencer said. “We’re encouraging residents to be cognizant of their own safety, as well as the safety of those around them.”

Residents should also remember to:

•Watch fireworks displays from a safe distance.
•Call 911 if anyone gets injured by fireworks.
•Set a positive example for children by not using illegal fireworks. If kids see adults using them, they may not realize the dangers and could be encouraged to pick up matches or lighters.
•Be careful around even the smallest fireworks. Sparklers burn at 1,800 degrees Fahrenheit and could easily cause severe burns and injuries.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention states that fireworks can cause death and injury, including burns, loss of limbs or extremities, contusions, lacerations and eye injuries.

Fifty-one percent of fireworks-related burn injuries reported by hospitals to the Office of the State Fire Marshal from 2006-2015 were to children under age 18. More than a quarter of the victims were children under age 10.

“Fire officials across the state urge everyone to leave the fireworks to the professionals and enjoy the many public displays supervised by local fire departments,” State Fire Marshal Peter J. Ostroskey said. “Be sure to set a good example for your children. They will imitate what you do and there are better places to the spend the holiday than the emergency room.”

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