Multiple U.S. fire departments have issued public warnings about the dangers of illegal fireworks and fire risk as summer celebrations approach.
According to the Massachusetts Department of Fire Services, over 500 fires and explosions and more than 200 emergency department visits have been caused by fireworks in the state over the past five years.
State Fire Marshal Jon M. Davine said: “Here in Massachusetts, fireworks have caused over 500 fires and explosions, more than 200 emergency department visits, and nearly $1 million in damages over the past five years.
“They are illegal without licensing and certification because they are so dangerous.
“Please don’t risk a fire, an injury, or a day in court – leave fireworks to the professionals.”
Data from 2020 to 2024 shows that most injuries and incidents occurred during June and July.
In 2020 alone, 75 emergency room visits and 187 fireworks-related fires or explosions were reported.
The Massachusetts Department of Fire Services reported that these numbers declined slightly in subsequent years, but remain a concern.
The department stated that possession or use of fireworks without proper authorization is prohibited by state law, and violations can result in fines or arrest.
This includes fireworks purchased legally in other states and brought into Massachusetts.
The agency added that police are required to seize any illegal fireworks encountered during their duties.
According to state data, Massachusetts maintains a fireworks injury rate of approximately 0.5 per 100,000 residents, compared to a national rate of 2.89 per 100,000.
Westborough Fire Chief Patrick J. Purcell, President of the Fire Chiefs Association of Massachusetts, said: “The weeks around July 4th are extremely busy for your local fire department.
“Fires and injuries spike as people put themselves, their families, and their neighbors in harm’s way with illegal fireworks.
“These incidents can draw firefighters and EMTs away from other emergencies in your city or town.
“If you want to watch a great fireworks show this summer, please check out one of the many safe, permitted displays scheduled in communities across Massachusetts.”
The City of Santa Clarita, California, and its public safety partners have also raised concerns about illegal fireworks use during peak wildfire season.
Santa Clarita Mayor Bill Miranda said: “With more than 13,000 acres of open space surrounding our city, wildfire prevention and emergency preparedness must remain a top priority.
“It only takes one spark to ignite a wildfire and cause widespread destruction.
“Wildfire prevention is a shared responsibility—especially here in Santa Clarita, where dry conditions and high winds create a dangerous combination during the summer and fall.
“By taking proactive steps now, we can reduce the risk of devastating fires and help keep our homes, families and open spaces safe.”
The city organized a community safety event featuring live demonstrations by the Los Angeles County Fire Department and brush-clearing animals used in fire-prone areas.
Officials said the initiative aimed to increase awareness of fire prevention strategies and safe alternatives to fireworks.
Assistant Fire Chief Pat Sprengel of the Los Angeles County Fire Department urged residents to prioritize safety and comply with local laws.
Sprengel said: “As we enter this fire season, I urge every resident to take action, maintain adequate brush clearance and defensible space, be prepared and have a plan.”
“These proactive steps can be the difference between a home lost and a home saved.”
“They also give our firefighters a fighting chance to protect what we all value most—our families, our neighbors and our sense of community.”
Fireworks are prohibited within Santa Clarita city limits.
Sprengel said residents should instead attend authorized events such as the “Spirit of America” show or the celebration at Six Flags Magic Mountain.
Santa Clarita Valley Sheriff’s Station Action Captain Brandon Barclay said: “This year, we’ll have two full teams of deputies dedicated to firework suppression in addition to our normal patrol deployment.”
“Please remember that any fires started by illegal fireworks will be considered negligent, and the person responsible will face criminal charges.”
He added that the station receives hundreds of additional calls each year around the Fourth of July due to fireworks violations.
Barclay encouraged residents to report non-emergency fireworks concerns to the sheriff’s station and use 9-1-1 only for urgent incidents.
He stated that enhanced patrols and suppression teams are in place to respond to violations throughout the holiday period.
The City of Santa Clarita continues to promote legal celebrations and preventative measures to protect homes and natural areas.
Officials noted that community education, enforcement of restrictions, and local participation are central to reducing risk.
Both the Massachusetts and California fire agencies reiterated the importance of using only professionally managed fireworks displays as a safer alternative.
Multiple U.S. fire departments have warned of increased risks from illegal fireworks as summer begins.
The Massachusetts Department of Fire Services reported more than 500 fires and over 200 injuries from fireworks over five years.
Most incidents occurred in June and July.
Massachusetts law prohibits possession or use of fireworks without a license.
Violators may face fines or arrest.
The state’s injury rate is below the national average.
Officials recommend attending permitted displays instead of private use.
Westborough Fire Chief Patrick J. Purcell warned that illegal use diverts emergency responders.
Santa Clarita officials highlighted wildfire risks linked to fireworks.
Mayor Bill Miranda stressed the importance of shared prevention efforts.
Assistant Fire Chief Pat Sprengel urged brush clearance and emergency planning.
Fireworks are banned in Santa Clarita city limits.
Local authorities have dedicated enforcement teams for July 4.
Residents are encouraged to report fireworks violations to non-emergency lines.
