Police, Fire Remind Residents of Fireworks Laws, Dangers

A release from the Stoneham Police and Fire Departments:

STONEHAM -- With the Fourth of July quickly approaching, Fire Chief Matthew Grafton and Police Chief James McIntyre would like to remind residents that fireworks are illegal in Massachusetts and can cause serious injuries if used incorrectly.

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. Residents are also prohibited from purchasing fireworks elsewhere and 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.

"We recognize that residents want to celebrate the holiday with family and friends, but we urge everyone to leave fireworks displays to the professionals," Chief Grafton said. "Class C fireworks still burn at extremely high temperatures and can cause serious burns, injuries and fires."

The Office of the State Fire Marshal reports that from 2007-2016, there were 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.

Additionally, 51 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.

This does not mean residents cannot enjoy fireworks displays over the course of the summer. However, Chief Grafton and Chief McIntyre recommend 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 and could easily cause severe burns and injuries.

"We ask that residents please celebrate responsibly during the Fourth of July," Chief McIntyre said. "We will have an increased presence throughout town during the week of July 4, and if you are caught with fireworks, they will be confiscated."

Anyone who has questions about fireworks or fireworks safety should contact the Stoneham Fire Department at 781-438-5296 or the Stoneham Police Department at 781-438-1215.