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Community Corner

Fireworks Sales: Should They Remain Illegal in Massachusetts?

According to data in a report titled "Leave Fireworks to Pros," there were 804 major firework accidents from the years 2002 to 2011, which caused one death, 18 injuries, four fire-service injuries and an estimated $2.5 million loss.


By Emily Atteberry

For many, fireworks are a symbol of patriotism, a key element of the Fourth of July. But without the proper precautions, they can be a serious threat to your family's well-being. 

The National Fire Protection Agency's #1 safety tip: "Leave it to the experts." After all, buying or possessing commercial fireworks is illegal in Massachusetts, the NFPA points out. (It's also illegal to transport them across state lines.)

According to data in a report titled “Leave Fireworks to Pros,” there were 804 major firework accidents from the years 2002 to 2011, which caused one death, 18  injuries, four fire-service injuries and an estimated $2.5 million loss.

The NFPA urges the public to remember that even sparklers can burn up to 1200 degrees Fahrenheit, which is plenty hot enough to cause a third degree burn. Glass melts at 900 degrees, for perspective.

If you do attend a public show, remember that children should not pick up fireworks that may be left over, as they could still be active, the NFPA says. Find a safe spot to watch the show that isn't in the line of falling fireworks ash and debris.

Inevitably, however, there will still be some who choose to brighten up their backyard barbecue with their own fireworks show, regardless of the law.

Phantom Fireworks offers the public a few basic tips for the safest commercial fireworks possible:

  • Select a large, paved surface for lighting fireworks
  • Keep fireworks away from wooded and grassy areas
  • Soak the launch site before and all spent products after
  • Keep a ready source of water available
  • Designate an adult to watch the trajectory, make sure no fires are started and douse any that are
  • Don’t let children or minors handle fireworks
What do you think? Should fireworks sales to consumers remain illegal in Massachusetts? Tell us in the comments.

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