John J. Bryfonski, Chief of Police
55 Constitution Drive
Bedford, NH 03110
For Immediate Release
Tuesday, July 3, 2018
Contact: John Guilfoil
Phone: 603-792-1350
Email: john@jgpr.net
Bedford Police Provide Fourth of July Safety Tips
BEDFORD, N.H. — Chief John J. Bryfonski and the Bedford Police Department would like to remind residents of several important safety tips as they celebrate the Fourth of July tomorrow.
Residents should remember that only class C fireworks are legal to display in the state of New Hampshire, and it is illegal to display any other fireworks without a proper permit.
“We ask that residents please celebrate responsibly tomorrow,” Chief Bryfonski said. “The safest way to enjoy fireworks is to leave them to the professionals. Improper handling can lead to serious burns or injuries. And as always, we remind residents to never drive while under the influence of alcohol or drugs.”
According to New Hampshire State Fire Marshal J. William Degnan, New Hampshire State Law requires that:
- You must be 21 or older to purchase and/or 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.
If using permissible fireworks, Bedford Police recommend the following safety tips:
- 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.
Additionally, Bedford Police urge residents to never drink and drive. Community members are encouraged to follow tips from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration:
- 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 local law enforcement.
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