Officials Warn Boston Residents Fireworks Are Illegal
BOSTON (CBS) – City officials asked Boston residents to be alert and respectful as they celebrate the 4th of July this weekend.
Boston Mayor Marty Walsh and Police Commissioner William Evans joined other officials at a Friday press conference to discuss security measures.
Evans said that while there is no specific threat for Boston's festivities, visitors are asked to be alert and pass any safety concerns on to police.
Walsh, Evans and Fire Commissioner Joseph Finn all reiterated during the press conference that fireworks are illegal in Massachusetts.
"Fireworks are illegal and dangerous. Be very cautious," said Walsh. "If you're going to be lighting off fireworks, which are against the law, respect your neighbors."
Boston will host a fireworks display Saturday night over the Esplanade.
Those are the only pyrotechnics Finn hopes to see.
"They're illegal and shouldn't be used. Leave it to the professionals," he said.
Finn also added that residents should use caution while grilling. The fire commissioner added that grills should not be used above the first floor and should be kept at least ten feet from buildings.
Evans said officers will be dispatched in neighborhoods around Boston in addition to on the Esplanade to assure a safe holiday.
"I'm aware this weekend is always a troubling weekend. I believe with the fireworks and the partying, any city you look at, July 4 tends to be a violent one. We've got plenty of resources out there," Evans said.
WBZ NewsRadio 1030's Carl Stevens reports