MARION — Police Chief Richard Nighelli and the Marion Police Department have issued reminders in advance of the July 4 fireworks, scheduled for Friday, July 1 at dusk at Silvershell Beach.

For residents in the Marion Village area, the following is suggested: 

Ask guests to arrive no later than 7 p.m.

For those located west of Front Street, guests parking on side streets are asked to park facing Converse Road.

For those located east of Front Street, guests parking on side streets are asked to park facing Water Street. The exception is for vehicles on Vine Street, which are asked to face west toward Front Street.

No parking will be allowed on the south side of Lewis Street between Front Street and Converse Road.

This parking guidance will help to reduce traffic problems should guests desire to leave before, during or immediately after the fireworks.

 Those who attend the fireworks at Silvershell Beach are encouraged to arrive early. Handicap parking will be available at the beach. 

Attendees are reminded that alcohol is prohibited and dogs are not allowed. Drone use will also be restricted in the area.

 Attendees may see an increased police presence in the area in support of the event.

Fireworks safety tips 

The possession, use and sale of all 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. It is also illegal for private citizens to purchase fireworks legally elsewhere and then transport them into the state.

 Residents are reminded of the following:

Attend organized and permitted fireworks displays only.

Never allow young children to go near fireworks.

Alcohol/drugs and fireworks do not mix.

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.

Remember to drive carefully.

Be mindful of pedestrians.

Always wear your seatbelt.

Do not drive under the influence of drugs or alcohol. From 2016 to 2020, there were 1,390 drivers killed in motor vehicle traffic crashes over the Fourth of July holiday period and  41% of the drivers killed were drunk.

Even if you’ve had only one alcoholic beverage, do not plan on driving. Instead, designate a sober driver or use a ride-share service to get home safely.

Take 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.

Residents are encouraged to remember to “See Something, Say Something." Any misuse of fireworks noticed in the community can be reported to the Marion Police Department at (508) 748-1212. Always call 911 in case of a firework-related emergency, a possible impaired driver on the road or other emergency.