For Immediate Release: 6/22/2021 8:34 am
City Manager Edward M. Augustus, Jr. has announced that the City of Worcester is taking proactive measures to reduce the number of illegal fireworks this summer. The Worcester Fire Department and the Worcester Police Department will collaborate to address complaints regarding the use of illegal fireworks.
“We take these complaints very seriously,” Augustus said. “Fireworks are dangerous and affect the quality of life in our neighborhoods. We are taking several measures to address this issue and ensure that our residents have a safe and enjoyable summer.”
Last year, the Worcester Police Department fielded a total of 1,993 complaint calls from mid-June to mid-August. Officials saw a gradual decrease in the number of complaints per week following the establishment of a safety task force and educational efforts. The reductions seen in the volume of calls was an indication that the strategies of the Worcester Police Department and Worcester Fire Department were successful.
“Our officers will be out again this summer working with our partners at the Worcester Fire Department to educate the public about the dangers of illegal fireworks,” said Police Chief Steven M. Sargent. “While enforcement is sometimes necessary, our main measure of success will be compliance from our residents.”
To report the use of illegal fireworks, please call the Worcester Police Department Complaint line at (508) 799-8606.
The departments will collect information from complaints and responded to problem areas. Officers and firefighters will go door-to-door in firework “hotspots” educating residents of the dangers of illegal fireworks and the adverse effects it has on quality of life in the community.
“Many people do not realize how dangerous fireworks can be,” said Fire Chief Michael Lavoie. “We have seen serious injuries as a result of these displays over the years. Last year we received an alarming increase of complaints from residents who were distressed about the disruption that the sound fireworks created in their neighborhoods. We do not want to repeat that.”
According to the Massachusetts Department of Fire Services Information, in the past decade, there have been 941 major fire and explosion incidents involving illegal fireworks reported to the Massachusetts Fire Incident Reporting System (MFIRS). The incidents caused 12 civilian injuries, 42 fire service injuries, and an estimated $2.1 million dollars-worth of damage.
Under the Massachusetts Fireworks Law, MGL Chapter 148, S. 39, the sale of fireworks may result in a fine up $1,000 and maximum of 1 year in prison while possession and use may result in a fine up to $100 and confiscation
