Ocean City Fire Marshals Re-opens Beach After All Remaining Fireworks Removed
Ocean City, Maryland – (July 7, 2021): Yesterday, July 6, 2021, Ocean City Bomb Squad personnel, assisted by the Maryland State Fire Marshal’s Office-Bomb Squad and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives (ATF) safely destroyed the remaining fireworks on the beach after the unintended fireworks discharge on Sunday. Destruction of the remaining fireworks occurred yesterday at approximately 6:20 p.m. on the beach at Dorchester Street and the beach area was reopened early this morning.
Bomb technicians spent more than 8 hours methodically assessing, sorting, and preparing the fireworks for disposal. In addition, the Town of Ocean City’s Public Works Department assisted in the quick clean-up and restoration of the beach.
“As of today, all areas of the beach and Boardwalk have been reopened, including the return of service for the Boardwalk Tram,” said Ocean City Fire Chief Richie Bowers. “I want to thank the Ocean City community, our businesses, residents, and visitors for their patients and understanding during this unexpected occurrence. Unsafe fireworks are not only dangerous but in some cases can be deadly. Our team of professionals from the Ocean City Bomb Squad who were assisted by various other city departments who did a phenomenal job ensuring that no citizens, visitors, or first responders were injured.” Along with OCFD career and volunteer personnel and public works crews, town wide assistance was provided by Ocean City Beach Patrol, the Engineering Department, Emergency Service and Ocean City Police.
The Ocean City Fire Marshal’s Office (FMO) investigation has determined that one of the fireworks being loaded was prematurely and unintentionally discharged, causing a chain reaction of fireworks to be discharged. According to the FMO, the exact reason for the unintended discharge has not been identified, but a damaged and/or faulty firework product could not be ruled out. At this time, there is no indication of any criminal or intentional intent at this point in the investigation.
“Fireworks can be a lot of fun, but we saw firsthand why it’s important to practice safety when watching or using fireworks,” finished Chief Bowers. “Although this was not the fireworks show we had all anticipated, we are fortunate that the safety perimeters and the swift actions of our town personnel prevented any serious injuries from occurring.”
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