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Fourth of July Fireworks Reminder

“Have fun but be safe this Fourth of July and give first responders the night off,” said State Fire Marshal Peter J. Ostroskey. “Keep your children safe. Kids under 15 account for one-third of the severe burn injuries requiring emergency room visits," he added. Last summer, there were many fires, amputations and burn injuries from illegal fireworks in Massachusetts. In the past decade (2010-2019), there have been 858 major fires and explosions involving illegal fireworks in Massachusetts. These incidents resulted in 12 civilian injuries, 40 fire service injuries and an estimated loss of $2.9 million.

Fireworks Injuries

In the past decade (2010-2019), 37 people have been treated at Massachusetts emergency rooms for severe burn injuries from fireworks – burns covering 5% of more of the body. Thirty-three percent were children age 14 or younger. An additional 22% were youth aged 15-24. The youngest victim was a seven-month old boy. These victims are scarred for life.

All Fireworks Are Illegal in Massachusetts

The possession and use of all fireworks by private citizens is illegal in Massachusetts. This includes 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. Sparklers burn at 1800 degrees Fahrenheit or higher. It is illegal to transport fireworks into Massachusetts, even if they were purchased legally elsewhere. Illegal fireworks must be confiscated on the spot. Read the summary of Massachusetts Fireworks Law (MGL c148 s39) here.

For more information on the dangers of fireworks, go to the Department of Fire Services webpage Leave the Fireworks to the Professionals.

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