John J. Bryfonski, Chief of Police
55 Constitution Drive
Bedford, NH 03110
For Immediate Release
Friday, July 1, 2016
Contact: John Guilfoil
Phone: 603-792-1350
Email: john@jgpr.net
Bedford Police Caution Residents on Fireworks Safety for Fourth of July Weekend
BEDFORD, N.H. — With the Fourth of July upon us, Chief John Bryfonski and the Bedford Police Department caution residents to be vigilant in their safety practices around fireworks this weekend.
The Bedford Police Department reminds residents that only class C fireworks are legal to display in the state of New Hampshire. It is illegal to display any other fireworks without a proper permit.
“If residents do finds themselves around fireworks this weekend, please use common sense,” Chief Bryfonski said. “When used incorrectly or carelessly, they can cause serious injury and damage. All of us at the Bedford Police Department ask that you leave the firework displays to the professionals.”
According to New Hampshire State Fire Marshal J. William Degnan, New Hampshire State Law requires that:
- You must be 21 or older to purchase permissible fireworks
- You must be 21 or older to display permissible fireworks
- You must be in a community that allows the use of permissible fireworks. Check with your local fire officials.
- You must be on your own private property or have written permission of the property owner.
- Only fireworks that are listed as permissible by the State of New Hampshire may be sold and possessed in communities that allow their possession and use. Firecrackers, bottle rockets and reloadable type shells are illegal in New Hampshire to have in your possession and/or use.
State Fire Marshal Degnan recommends the following safety tips for permissible fireworks:
- Follow your local and state laws regarding the display and possession of fireworks. Be certain to read and follow all directions, caution labels and warnings labels on each individual firework device.
- Never allow children to handle, play with and/or light any type of fireworks.
- Do not consume alcohol while handling fireworks.
- Always display fireworks in a clear, open area free of overhead objects. Always provide for a safe distance between buildings and any viewing audience.
- Always light fireworks on a hard, flat and level surface to ensure stability of the device.
- Never extend any part of your body over the top of any device.
- Always ignite one device at a time.
- Never attempt to re-ignite, alter or fix any fireworks device that has failed to fire.
- Always have a form of fire suppression nearby (fire extinguisher, hose or bucket of water).
- Be cautious of igniting aerial devices during high wind conditions.
- Never aim, point, throw or shoot fireworks at another person.
- Always store fireworks in a cool, dry place and dispose of them properly.
The Bedford Police Department recommends that residents only attend celebrations put on by a licensed professional to ensure safety. Please have a safe and happy 4th of July weekend.
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