HULL — Chief John Dunn and the Hull Police Department wish to share an important reminder of several important safety tips as residents prepare to celebrate Independence Day at home and by the beach next weekend.
Fireworks of all kinds are illegal in Massachusetts and open burning is only legal in the state between Jan. 15 and May 1. The Hull Police will take enhanced measures, including increased enforcement of beach parking regulations, in order to ensure that the ban on bonfires during the summer months is strictly adhered to and that fireworks are not being used at any time.
The Hull Police Department would also like to remind residents that a recent change to New Hampshire law legalizing firecrackers has no effect on the ban of those items, which remains in place in Massachusetts.
Below is some basic information on the fireworks law in Massachusetts:
What is prohibited by the law?
Private citizens may not use, possess or sell fireworks anywhere in Massachusetts, nor may they purchase them legally elsewhere and transport them into Massachusetts. The law prohibits any item designed to produce a visible or audible effect.
What are the penalties?
A fine of up to $100 and mandatory confiscation of the fireworks, which cannot be returned.
Additionally, the Hull Police Department reminds residents to be aware of these key safety tips:
- Don’t drink and drive
- Be mindful of pedestrians
- Attend organized and permitted fireworks displays only
- Report illegal bonfires to the police
- Remember: alcohol and fireworks do not mix
- Keep pets indoors
- Do not leave items on the beach that could be used for burning
“We want everyone to have a great Fourth of July, which is only possible if residents and visitors take care to celebrate safely and responsibly,” Chief Dunn said. “Residents can certainly enjoy an organized fireworks display this summer, but should never attempt to put one on themselves due to the tremendous risk of injury associated with them.”
The Hull Police Department urges residents to observe the following tips from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration on getting home safely:
- Even if you’ve had only one alcoholic beverage, do not plan on driving
- Designate a sober driver or use public transportation or a ride share service to get home safely
- Take the keys away from individuals who are drunk and are planning to drive
- If you see an impaired driver on the road, call 911
For more information on fireworks, click here. For more on general summer safety tips, click here.
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