Concord First Responders Offer Tips For Safe Independence Day

CONCORD, MA — Concord may have canceled all Fourth of July town-sponsored activities and events to avoid the potential spread of the coronavirus, but first responders are still reminding residents how to safely celebrate on their own.

The Concord Police and Fire Departments encourage residents to be mindful of COVID-19 and practice social distancing while celebrating the holiday. Residents should keep interactions small and avoid larger groups this Fourth of July.

During Fourth of July celebrations, the Concord Police and Fire Departments remind residents to be aware of these key safety tips:

• Don’t drive under the influence of drugs or alcohol
• Be mindful of pedestrians
• Attend organized and permitted fireworks displays only
• Report illegal fires to the police
• Remember: alcohol/drugs and fireworks do not mix
• Keep pets indoors

The Concord Police and Fire Departments also urge residents to observe the following tips from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration on getting home safely:

• 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 under the influence and are planning to drive. Alcohol and drugs can impair perception, judgment, motor skills and memory which are critical for safe and responsible driving
• If you see an impaired driver on the road, call 911

"While we want all of our community members to enjoy themselves this Fourth of July weekend, we would also like to remind them of some key safety tips," Chief O'Connor said. "It is never safe to drive impaired or mix the drinking of alcohol and lighting of illegal fireworks. Residents should be mindful of COVID-19 restrictions as well and avoid large gatherings."

Fireworks are illegal in Massachusetts, including Class C fireworks like sparklers. The Concord Police and Fire Departments recommend that residents only attend displays put on by a licensed professional to ensure safety.

"There's no excuse for putting yourself and others in harm’s way by setting fireworks off on your own this holiday weekend," Chief Judge said. "No one should be creating their own fireworks displays if they aren't licensed professionals. Residents should leave fireworks shows up to the professionals to prevent possibly bodily injury or property damage."

The Concord Police Department asks that you do not call 911 to report illegal fireworks or noise complaints. Please use the business line at 978-318-3400 for these reports as it is imperative that the 911 lines remain open for real emergencies. Only call 911 if someone is injured by fireworks or there is an active fire.