Around Town

City Reminds Residents Outdoor Burning Prohibited, Don’t Shoot Off Fireworks

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Courtesy of the City of Watertown

Having an open outdoor fire, except for a barbecue, is prohibited in Watertown, City officials said, and they also reminded residents not to set off fireworks. The City sent out the following announcement:

Did you know that open burning (fire pits, chimineas or outdoor wood burning fireplaces/stoves) is NOT ALLOWED in Watertown? This does not apply to the use of charcoal and propane grills for cooking, that meet all the necessary requirements. Read more here. If you have any questions or concerns regarding open/outside burning regulations, please call the Watertown Department Fire Prevention Bureau at 617-972-6510.

Police/Fire

Fire on Gore Place Property Doused by Watertown Firefighters

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ContributedFlames from a blaze on the Gore Estate can be seen from the back of a home on Edward Road. Watertown firefighters doused a blaze on the property of Gore Place which the Fire Department believes was started by illegal fireworks. On Saturday, July 23 at about 10:30 p.m. the Watertown Fire Department received a report of a fire on the Gore Estate property. The fire occurred near homes on Edward Road, according to Acting Fire Chief Ryan Nicholson. “We believe it was caused by fireworks, due to some remnants, but it is difficult to determine because illegal fireworks are set off frequently in that area,” Nicholson said.

Fireworks

Watertown Police, Fire Departments Warn About Using Fireworks

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JL Johnson, https://www.flickr.com/photos/user47/Fireworks

The following announcement was provided by the City of Watertown:

Watertown Public Safety Announcement: Please leave fireworks to the professionals this summer! 

Massachusetts Fireworks Law MGL Chapter 148, S. 39

It is illegal for private citizens to use, possess, or sell fireworks in Massachusetts, or to purchase them legally elsewhere and then transport them into the state. • Fine for possession or use of fireworks between $10-$100

• Up to a $1,000 fine for the sale of fireworks

Fireworks (including sparklers) are not safe, especially around children. Sparklers burn at temperatures of over 1,800° Fahrenheit! 

Children under age 5 are likely to suffer the worst burn injuries caused by sparklers. We need your help to prevent unnecessary injuries, house fires, property damage, and traumatic experiences for many children, pets, active military, veterans, and other residents. If you have any information on fireworks or to report firework activity, please call the Watertown Police Department at 617-972-6500.