Michael J. d’Entremont
Chief of Police
600 High St.
Dedham, MA 02026
For Immediate Release
Tuesday, May 29, 2018
Contact: Benjamin Paulin
Phone: 781-742-3922
Email: ben@jgpr.net
Dedham Police Department Reminds Residents that Use of Fireworks in Massachusetts is Illegal
DEDHAM — With the approach of summer celebrations and the Fourth of July, Chief Michael D’Entremont and the Dedham Police Department remind residents that all use of fireworks in the state of Massachusetts are prohibited.
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.
“If someone is caught in possession of or using fireworks, they will be confiscated and the resident will risk being fined up to $100,” said Chief D’Entremont.
The Office of the State Fire Marshal reports that from 2007-2016, there have been 826 major fire and explosion incidents involving illegal fireworks reported to the Massachusetts Fire Incident Reporting System. These incidents caused 11 civilian injuries, five fire service injuries and an estimated loss of $1.8 million.
In addition to injuries, the sound created by fireworks exploding can cause stress, which can be experienced by people who may be sensitive to loud noises, such as the elderly and veterans who may suffer from Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD). Pets may also be susceptible to such noises.
This does not mean citizens cannot enjoy fireworks displays over the course of the summer. However, Police Chief D’Entremont recommends that residents only attend celebrations put on by a licensed professional to ensure safety.
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 2007-2016 were to children under age 18. More than a quarter of the victims were children under age 10.
“Fireworks-related accidents are a serious issue,” said Chief D’Entremont. “If children see adults break the law, they will think that fireworks are not as dangerous as they really are.”
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