From the NH Department of Safety

LOUDON, N.H. – Today, New Hampshire Department of Safety Commissioner Robert Quinn joined State Fire Marshal Sean Toomey, State Police Bomb Squad Commander Sergeant Jeffrey Dade, and Chief of the NH Forest Protection Steve Sherman to discuss fireworks safety leading into the Fourth of July Weekend.

Fireworks will be part of a number of Fourth of July celebrations. In 2019, 15 people were treated by NH emergency medical services due to fireworks related injuries.
“Our goal is to reduce deaths and injuries, and keep people safe,” said Commissioner Robert Quinn. “So, my message is simple; I want everyone to be safe this Fourth of July. I want every Fourth of July celebration to start and end safely.”

“If you are going to enjoy fireworks as part of your celebration, we ask that you be prepared, be responsible and be safe,” said State Fire Marshal Sean Toomey. “Fireworks can be exciting and enjoyable, but they can also be dangerous. The safest way to enjoy fireworks is by attending one of the more than fifty professional display scheduled this weekend all across the state.”

“Please remember to always follow the manufacturer’s instructions so that permissible fireworks are used in a safe and appropriate manner,” said NH State Police Bomb Squad Commander, Sergeant Jeffery Dade. “Homemade fireworks are not only illegal but also a danger to the user and everyone around.
Never modify consumer fireworks or make your own.”

“In New Hampshire, 90 percent of the wildfires are human caused and we lose more than 200 acres annually to wildfires,” said Chief Steve Sherman of the NH Forest Protection Bureau. “While it’s easy to understand that campfires cause wildfires, fireworks also cause wildfires here in New Hampshire. Even something small like a sparkler could set off a wildfire. That’s why it’s important for people to be
prepared this weekend.”