Canton fire chief: Leave the fireworks to the pros
By Mike BergerCanton Fire Chief Charlie Doody is urging the public to obey the law and “leave the fireworks to the professionals this year.”
“Every summer we see the tragic effects of illegal fireworks use in our state,” said Doody. “In Canton, we have many instances of teens and young adults using illegal fireworks believing that they can do it safely. Unfortunately, there are many instances of injuries to people who falsely believe fireworks are harmless.”
In the past two years, Doody cited 10 instances in Massachusetts communities where people were seriously injured or significant damage was incurred due to fireworks.
Canton fire officials are working to ensure that tomorrow night’s fireworks display at the Irish Cultural Center is safe for spectators. The state Fire Marshal’s Office licenses professional fireworks shooters, and according to Doody, “We have modern regulations so those shows are as safe as possible for everyone. Canton’s Fire Division is working to make sure those regulations are closely followed.” Doody said fireworks mishaps and injuries at professional shows are rare in Massachusetts.
State Fire Marshal Stephen Coan said, “At illegal shows, there is no licensed, trained shooter; no one is setting safe distances for the audience; there is no fire engine or EMT standing by, and sadly, alcohol is often involved and judgment is impaired. It is these illegal shows, often at waterfront property, where most of the horror shows take place — the most terrible injuries and resulting lawsuits.”
Short URL: https://www.thecantoncitizen.com/?p=25939
Posted by Mike Berger
on Jul 3 2014. Filed under News, Police & Fire.
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