STONEHAM — Fire Chief Matthew Grafton would like to remind Stoneham residents about some important safety tips that can help ensure everyone has a fun and safe summer, including the Fourth of July holiday.
Fireworks of all kinds are illegal in Massachusetts. On average, 180 people go to the emergency room every day with fireworks-related injuries in the month around the July 4th holiday, according to the United States Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC).
“Fireworks should only be used by professionals,” Chief Grafton said. “Improper use can lead to serious injury and sets a bad example for young children who may not understand the danger of fireworks use. Please enjoy fireworks displays put on by professionals from a distance this summer.”
Fireworks Can Cause Serious Injuries
According to the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC), sparklers can burn as hot as 2,000 degrees and pose an injury risk, especially to children. To warn individuals of the dangers related to firework use, the Stoneham Fire Department reiterates the following injury facts by the CPSC:
- The types of fireworks that cause the most injuries are firecrackers, sparklers and bottle rockets.
- The most frequently injured body parts are the hands, head/neck, and eyes.
- Burns are the most common injury. Cuts, bumps and bruises are the most common injuries to the head.
- In addition to blindness, third degree burns and permanent scarring, fireworks also cause life-threatening home and motor vehicle fires.
The Stoneham Fire Department reminds all residents that due to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, people should be continuing to practice aggressive social distancing by keeping a six-foot distance from others, and wearing an appropriate face covering while around others.
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