Chief Ed Warren and the East Kingston Fire Department wish to share several important safety tips and reminders as residents prepare to celebrate the Fourth of July holiday.
In New Hampshire, state law allows those age 21 and older to purchase, possess and use consumer fireworks on their private property. East Kingston allows personal use of fireworks with a permit.
Residents are encouraged to report any misuse of fireworks they notice in the community to the East Kingston Police Department at 603-642-5427. In case of a fireworks-related or other emergency, always dial 911.
Chief Warren and Department share the following safety tips with residents:
Celebrate Safely
- Attend organized and permitted fireworks displays only.
- Remember, alcohol/drugs and fireworks do not mix.
- Never allow young children to go near fireworks.
- Keep pets indoors and away from fireworks. The loud noises and flashing lights can be frightening and overwhelming for pets. Pets can become frightened and run from familiar environments and people, becoming lost. Read more here.
Boat Safely
- Always wear a life jacket when on the water. Make sure the jacket is a proper fit for your size and weight and that it is properly fastened. The U.S. Coast Guard reports that there were 636 boating fatalities nationwide in 2022. Alcohol contributed to 88 deaths, or 16 percent of total fatalities.
- Maintain awareness of your surroundings at all times.
- Be courteous and respectful to other boaters.
- Travel at a safe speed for the environment and conditions.
- Be sure you have and know how to use essential equipment, such as visual distress signals, sound producing devices, locator devices, fire extinguishers and navigation lights.
- Check the latest forecast before leaving shore and watch for changing weather.
- Take a safe boating course and get a vessel safety check.
- Never boat under the influence. Drugs and alcohol impact your cognitive abilities, judgment, balance, coordination, reaction time and vision. Federal law prohibits boating under the influence of alcohol and drugs on all boats.
- For more information on safe boating, click here.
The East Kingston Fire Department wishes everyone a safe and happy Fourth of July!