Month: June 2021

SWANSEA — With extreme temperatures expected through Wednesday, Fire Chief and Emergency Management Director Eric Hajder would like to provide residents with the following hot weather safety tips.

Massachusetts is currently under a heat advisory. Temperatures are forecast to be in the mid-upper 90s for the first half of this week in most places. High temperatures, along with high humidity levels, are expected to result in a high heat index, which is the “feel like” temperature. Heat indexes are expected to reach between 98 and 104 degrees at times.

Temperatures are expected to reach the 90s in Swansea both Tuesday and Wednesday this week. To prevent illness and injuries, the Swansea Police and Fire Departments recommend the following safety tips from the American Red Cross and National Safety Council:

Heat Safety Tips:

• Hot cars can be deadly. Never leave children or pets in your vehicle. The inside temperature of the car can quickly reach over 100 degrees, even on a 70 degree day.
• Drink plenty of fluids, like water, even if you do not feel thirsty, and avoid alcoholic beverages, drinks with caffeine and large amounts of sugar—these actually cause you to lose more body fluid.
• Check on family, friends and neighbors who do not have air conditioning, who spend much of their time alone or who are more likely to be affected by the heat.
• If someone doesn’t have air conditioning, they should seek relief from the heat during the warmest part of the day in places like libraries, theaters, malls, etc.
• Wear loose-fitting, lightweight, light-colored clothing. Avoid dark colors because they absorb the sun’s rays. Protect yourself from the sun by wearing a wide-brimmed hat, sunglasses, and by putting on sunscreen of SPF 15 or higher 30 minutes prior to going out.
• Slow down, stay indoors and avoid strenuous exercise during the hottest part of the day, which is typically around 3 p.m.
• Postpone outdoor games and activities if the temperature is too hot.
• Avoid extreme temperature changes.
• Take frequent breaks if working outdoors.
• Check on animals frequently to ensure that they are not suffering from the heat. Make sure they have plenty of cool water.
• Click here to learn to recognize and treat heat illnesses.

Additional Tips for Parents:

• Limit playtime at peak sun exposure time and familiarize yourself with the signs of heat illnesses.
• Avoid burns. If playground equipment is hot to the touch, it is too hot for your child’s bare skin.

To learn more about summer safety, visit the National Safety Council’s summer safety website here.

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SWANSEA — With summer in full swing and the Fourth of July holiday fast approaching, Police Chief Marc Haslam and Fire Chief Eric Hajder would like to remind residents that the recreational use of fireworks in Massachusetts is illegal and violators will be arrested.

According to Massachusetts State Fire Marshal, fires started by fireworks increased by 180% in 2020 and complaints to local police departments increased significantly as well. This year, State and local law enforcement agencies will be ramping up their efforts to stop illegal firework use and sales in Massachusetts.

“Swansea Police will be conducting heightened beach patrols over the holiday weekend to ensure there is no illegal use of fireworks,” Chief Haslam said. “Our top priority is the safety of our residents, so we ask that everyone celebrates safely and responsibly this Fourth of July.”

The possession, use and sale of fireworks without a professional license is against the law in Massachusetts, and punishable by confiscation, fine or imprisonment. Fines range from $100 to $1,000, and some violations could carry a one-year prison sentence.

In order to cut down on residents purchasing fireworks in other states and transporting them back to Massachusetts, members of the State Police will begin targeted patrols along state lines to enforce fireworks laws.

According to the Massachusetts State Fire Marshal, between 2011 and 2020, there were over 900 reported major fires and explosions involving illegal fireworks. During that time span, 32 people were treated at Massachusetts emergency rooms for severe burns or other injuries from fireworks.

“Illegal fireworks use can cause severe bodily injury, property damage or destruction and even death,” Chief Hajder said. “Those who wish to see fireworks displays are encouraged to leave fireworks to the licensed professionals.”

Residents are encouraged to report any misuse of fireworks they notice in their community to the Swansea Police Department at 508-674-8464. In case of a firework-related or other emergency, always dial 911.

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