Mayor Walsh, if you haven’t guessed by now, is something of a party animal. The helmsman of Boston has already offered city residents a World Cup watch party, has another one in the works and is going to be the emcee of the annual Boston Harborfest celebration. But Mayor Walsh is a man of moderation in that he wants you to have fun letting loose, but not to the point where you’ve compromised your safety.

On Monday, ahead of World Cup watch party part deux, the 33rd Boston Harborfest and Fourth of July this weekend, Mayor Walsh announced a number of tips to keep you safe and sound for the entire summer. Not only will they keep you from sustaining the likes of heatstroke and alcohol poisoning, but they’ll keep your car from being towed and you from landing in jail.

Have a safe summer, Boston.

Police:

• As the City of Boston enters the summer, compared to 2013 at this time shootings are down 37% and violent crime is down 13%. Since the start of this year, the 2014 Gun Buy Back Program has collected 344 guns. Independent of the Gun Buy Back Program, the Boston Police Department (BPD) has retrieved 347 crime guns, including 295 handguns, 25 rifles, and 27 shotguns.
• This summer, BPD’s 56 newest recruits will be part of increased police presence in Districts B-2 (Roxbury), B-3 (Mattapan), and C-11 (Dorchester), areas of the city that have been identified as crime hotspots. In addition, a new bike unit of 50 officers are assigned to patrol the area.
• Several kids programs offered by BPD are getting underway. The Junior Police Academy is a week-long program that introduces participants to the various operational components of BPD, such as a visit to Police Headquarters for tours of the Identification and Ballistics Unit, and trips to the Police Academy, Range, and Harbor Patrol.

Fireworks:

• All types of fireworks are illegal and not allowed in Boston, as throughout Massachusetts.
• Sparklers, which burn at over 1100 degrees, firecrackers and other hand-held fireworks can cause permanent injuries, especially with young children.
• Here’s more information on Massachusetts’ fireworks laws & regulations.

Outdoor Fires and Grilling:

• No outdoor fires are allowed in Boston, including fire pits, chimneys and bonfires.
• Charcoal grills must be on the ground and away from buildings. Keep in mind the wind and never leave unattended. When done, dispose of the ash in a metal container once completely out.
• Propane tank grills are only allowed on first floor porches with steps to the ground. Do not place propane tank grills near air conditioners or up against a building. Make sure all connections are tight and never carry propane tanks into a home.

Heat Safety:

• Never underestimate the seriousness of heat-related emergencies. The elderly, young children, and those with chronic medical conditions are more susceptible to the effects of heat. Always check in on family or neighbors who may be at risk heat exhaustion or heat stroke as temperatures climb.
• Children and pets should never be left alone in vehicle, for even short periods of times.
• If you become lightheaded, confused, weak, or faint, stop all activity and immediately find shade or a cool area to rest. If symptoms persist, call 911 immediately.
• Try to limit your outdoor activity to morning and evening hours. Rest often in shady areas so that your body can cool itself.
• Drink plenty of fluids, making sure to avoid alcoholic beverages and liquids high in sugar or caffeine. During hot weather, increase your fluid intake, regardless of your activity level.
• The homeless can become dehydrated rapidly due to a lack of access to water or shelter from the heat. If you observe someone who appears in distress, please contact 911 immediately.
• The City of Boston will declare a Heat Emergency after temperatures have reached 90 degrees or higher for three or more consecutive days. During a Heat Emergency, cooling centers will be open across the City.
• Residents can sign up for Alert Boston, the city’s emergency notification system, to receive emergency alerts on by phone, email, or text.

Have any righteous, lawful summer party plans? Make us envious in the comments section below.

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