Press Release  Local, State and Federal Partners Share Public Safety Guidance Ahead of Boston Pops Fireworks Spectacular

BOSTON — Today in a press conference at the Hatch Shell, local, state and federal partners provided know-before-you-go guidance for residents and visitors ahead of the Boston Pops Fireworks Spectacular. Officials shared important public safety, public health, transportation and event information to support a safe and enjoyable celebration of the nation's 250th anniversary. 

Recognizing the health and safety risks of extreme heat for participants, staff, volunteers, and first responders, officials will delay the opening of the Esplanade gates to 4 p.m. Separately, event partners will provide dedicated space for cooling stations, misting stations, and free drinking water. Participants will be encouraged to stay hydrated, take breaks from the sun whenever possible, and seek medical assistance immediately if anyone experiences symptoms of heat-related illness. 

The Boston Pops Fireworks Spectacular continues an unprecedented year of large-scale events.  Through months of planning and coordination, local, state and federal law enforcement, emergency management, transportation, public health, fire service, and environmental partners have supported America250 celebrations across the Commonwealth, the Boston Marathon, the FIFA World Cup, and Sail Boston.  

Event Experience 

The concert begins at 7 p.m. and ends at approximately 9:30 p.m. following the fireworks display.  

To avoid heat exposure, please do not arrive before 4 p.m. when the Esplanade gates open. 

Participants may bring: 

• Pop-up tents or canopies (maximum 10' x 10', no sides); please note that tents and canopies must be taken down by 6 p.m. to maintain visibility. 
• Blankets or tarps (maximum 10' x 10') 
• Folding or beach chairs 
• Coolers carried by a shoulder strap or single handle (no wheeled coolers) 
• Sealed, clear plastic beverage containers up to 2 liters 

Public Safety 

Please do your part to ensure a safe celebration by:  

• Reviewing event rules and prohibited items. 
• Leave weapons, fireworks, and drones at home. 
• Follow instructions from law enforcement, public safety personnel and event staff. 
• Call 9-1-1 in an emergency. 
• Agree upon a designated meeting place in case members of your group get separated. 
• Stay aware of your surroundings throughout the event. 
• If you see suspicious activity, notify the nearest public safety official. 

Public Health  

With extreme heat in the forecast, participants should: 

• Drink plenty of water before, during and after the event. 
• Use the cooling, misting, and water stations on site. 
• Take shade breaks whenever possible.  
• Bring water to stay hydrated. Liquids are permitted only in sealed, clear plastic containers no larger than 2 liters. Cans, pre-mixed beverages and alcoholic beverages are prohibited. 
• Wear lightweight clothing and a hat. 
• Regularly apply sunscreen with at least SPF 30. 
• Check on children, older adults and anyone who may be more vulnerable to heat-related illness. 
• Know the signs of heat exhaustion and heat stroke, and seek medical attention immediately if someone becomes ill. Prevent and treat heat-related illness | Mass.gov 
• For additional advice on preventing heat-related illness visit mass.gov/ExtremeHeat. 

Transportation 

• Navigating large crowds, road closures, and heavy traffic can prove challenging. No matter how you plan to travel to the site, please allow extra travel time. 
• Please consider taking the MBTA to the event. All subway lines will operate a Saturday schedule with increased service from 3 p.m. through the end of service, and fares are free after 8:30 p.m. on bus, subway, ferry, Commuter Rail, and the RIDE. Full service information is available at MBTA.com/Holidays. 
• The MBTA reminds riders to let staff know if there are air conditioning issues on a bus or train. Tell an operator, let a station official know, call 617-222-3200, send us a message, or message the MBTA on X @MBTA. Be sure to include a bus or train number. 
• Check MBTA schedules and service updates at MBTA.com/Alerts and on X @MBTA before leaving home. 

Fireworks Safety 

• Leave the fireworks to the professionals. 
• Consumer fireworks are illegal in Massachusetts, even if they were legally purchased in another state. Law enforcement is required to confiscate illegal fireworks. 
• Last year, illegal fireworks caused 112 fires and explosions, 43 emergency room visits for traumatic injuries, and one fatality in Massachusetts. Instead of risking injury, fire or legal consequences, attend a professionally permitted fireworks display and leave the fireworks to the professionals. 
• For a list of permitted fireworks displays across the Commonwealth, visit mass.gov/dfs 

“This year's Fourth of July carries even greater significance as our nation marks its 250th anniversary,” said Public Safety and Security Secretary Gina Kwon. “This summer is showcasing what strong partnerships make possible. From the World Cup to Sail Boston next week and this iconic Fourth of July celebration, public safety agencies at every level are working together to help people enjoy these extraordinary events safely. We encourage everyone to plan ahead, arrive when the gates open, and join us in making this a safe, memorable, and joyful Independence Day.” 

“The Massachusetts State Police are prepared and poised to ensure the safety of this event.  Anyone coming to the Esplanade on the fourth will be met with a law enforcement presence that is honored to serve the Commonwealth with professionalism and engage with those who’ve traveled from near and far to celebrate on the banks of the Charles,” said Colonel Geoffrey Noble, Superintendent of the Massachusetts State Police. “We do need the public’s help to be respectful to others, avoid prohibited items, and to remain alert.  Your help is critical to the safety and success of this event for all.”  

“Right now, the FBI is not tracking any specific or credible threats to the Boston Pops Fireworks Spectacular, or any other events in our region, but we must approach celebrations of this magnitude with heightened vigilance. We simply cannot afford to be complacent,” said Ted E. Docks, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI’s Boston Division. “Two hundred and fifty years ago, our Founding Fathers risked everything to establish this nation founded on liberty and the rule of law. They understood it required vigilance, sacrifice, & a commitment to protecting one another. That’s why we’re asking you to help us honor their legacy by working with us to help safeguard the freedoms they fought so hard to secure. Remain alert, stay safe, and report suspicious activity to law enforcement.” 

“As Massachusetts celebrates the 250th anniversary of our nation this week, we may also be experiencing a historic — and dangerous — heat wave,” said Public Health Commissioner Robbie Goldstein, MD, PhD. “Extreme heat is a major public health emergency, and it can be deadly. I urge everyone to take this forecast seriously. As a physician, I have seen how quickly heat-related illness can escalate and the devastating toll it can take. The good news is that most heat-related illnesses and deaths are preventable with a few simple steps taken before temperatures peak. Visit mass.gov to access DPH’s Extreme Heat website and learn how to protect yourself, your family, and your community. Preparing for the Fourth of July this year means preparing to stay healthy, hydrated, and heat-safe.”  

“The Esplanade is one of Massachusetts' most treasured public spaces, and we're proud to welcome hundreds of thousands of people here to celebrate our nation's 250th anniversary,” said DCR Commissioner Nicole LaChapelle. “As we celebrate together, we ask every visitor to help care for the Esplanade by using trash and recycling bins and leaving this historic park as beautiful as they found it. Our public lands belong to all of us, and we all have a role in protecting them.” 

“We are very grateful to all the public safety officials who are working so hard to ensure this year’s Boston Pops Fireworks Spectacular remains safe and enjoyable for all attendees, event staff, and volunteers, and first responders despite the heat,” said Jan Devereux, Senior Director of Public Relations and Communications for the Boston Symphony Orchestra.  

"The MBTA Transit Police are well prepared to help safeguard the MBTA system during this historic time in our nation's history," said MBTA Transit Police Chief Kenneth Green. "We will have additional resources deployed throughout the MBTA system, particularly at stations and bus routes expected to see the greatest impact from the Fourth of July celebrations. We are proud of our longstanding partnerships with our federal, state, and local public safety partners, which help ensure a safe commuting environment for everyone. We strongly encourage everyone attending the Boston Pops Fireworks Spectacular to take public transportation. And remember: If You See Something, Say Something."

"While we're looking forward to a safe and memorable Fourth of July celebration, our biggest concern heading into the holiday is the stretch of extreme heat we're experiencing this week," said Boston EMS Chief James Hooley. "Extreme heat is the great equalizer—it can affect anyone, and during prolonged heat events like this, Boston EMS typically sees a 10 to 15 percent increase in 9-1-1 calls. If you're planning to celebrate along the Esplanade, remember that the event doesn't open until 4 p.m., so there's no need to arrive hours early and spend unnecessary time sitting in the heat. Drink plenty of water, take breaks in the shade whenever you can, and don't ignore symptoms like dizziness, nausea, or confusion. Taking a few simple precautions can help keep you safe throughout the holiday weekend." 

"We welcome families from across New England and around the world to Boston for July 4th. This year as we celebrate FIFA, Sail Boston and Boston 250 we have many more guests enjoying our beautiful City. Boston is where many great things in our Country began, in fact it is where policing and public safety started. Our officers keep our City safe in partnership with residents and visitors. Community Policing is our mission," said Boston Police Commissioner Michael A. Cox. “So you enjoy the holiday, take the precautions for dealing with this extreme heat that our EMS partners offer, and follow the laws: leave fireworks to the professionals, leave drones at home, no public drinking or consumption of marijuana. Most importantly, have fun, and if you See Something, Say Something - find a Boston Police officer, a Massachusetts State Trooper or call 911 immediately if you see something or someone that is concerning." 

“Large public events require extensive planning and coordination long before visitors arrive,” said Massachusetts Emergency Management Agency Director Dawn Brantley. “Our teams work year-round with partners across every level of government to help ensure the Commonwealth is prepared for a safe and successful celebration.” 

“Fireworks cause dozens of traumatic injuries and about 100 fires and explosions each year in Massachusetts,” said State Fire Marshal Jon M. Davine. “Tragically, one resident even lost his life last summer. These devices are inherently dangerous – and illegal for consumer use in Massachusetts. Don’t risk a fire, an injury, or a day in court. We have dozens of safe, permitted fireworks shows lined up in Massachusetts this season, so please -- leave fireworks to the professionals.” 

“The Cambridge Police Department is proud to again work alongside our public safety partners to safeguard this great event,” said Cambridge Police Acting Commissioner Pauline E. Wells. “We are looking forward to another enjoyable year and encourage all who are attending to celebrate responsibly. This year the weather is expected to be very hot and humid, please stay hydrated and take care of yourself, while keeping an eye out for others who might be in need of assistance. Our officers will be visible throughout the city to provide support to anyone who finds themselves in need.” 

For the latest information on the Boston Pops Fireworks Spectacular, including event updates, transportation information, road closures and public safety guidance, visit the official Boston Pops website. 

###