Fireworks Safety

Each year in July, many people will celebrate the Fourth of July holiday by attending a professional fireworks display. Others will travel outside the state of Massachusetts to purchase their own fireworks. Although heavily advertised during this time of year, it is illegal in the Commonwealth of Massachusetts to possess fireworks.

Since 2012, there have been 944 reports of fires and explosions as a result of illegal fireworks in Massachusetts. Often people fail to recognize the dangers associated with class c fireworks, (i.e. sparklers, cherry bombs, and firecrackers to name a few). Sparklers burn at 1800 degrees, at this intensity they can immediately ignite a child's clothing or cause serious burns if they contact the skin. According to a U.S. Fire Administration report, 57% of fireworks-associated injuries that children under age 5 sustain, can be attributed to sparklers.  

When you celebrate July 4th, be sure to catch a professional fireworks display properly supervised and permitted by your local fire department. Have a safe and fun 4th of July; leave the fireworks to the professionals.  Recognize and respect the hazards associated with fireworks and stay safe this summer by remaining "firework free".

If you have questions about the hazards associated with fireworks, please contact your local fire department or visit the Department of Fire Services website at www.mass.gov/dfs