As the Fourth of July draws near, many people will celebrate the holiday by attending a professional fireworks display. Others will travel outside the state of Massachusetts to purchase their own fireworks. Although heavily advertised this time of year, it is illegal in the Commonwealth of Massachusetts to possess fireworks. Since 1995, there have been more than 580 reports of fire as a result of fireworks and 64 burn injuries as a result of fireworks incidents. 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. This 4th of July, 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
