Five people suffered burns in a fireworks incident Saturday night in Rindge.

Fire Chief Bob Faas said all injuries were “minor” and all five patients declined to be taken to the hospital by ambulance.

According to Faas, the incident occurred on a lakefront property at 55 Lake Drive at 9:45 p.m. Saturday, where people were shooting off fireworks on the shore of Contoocook Lake. The residents had not filed for a fireworks permit, which is required in Rindge.

According to the Rindge Police Department, crews initially responded to a report of multiple people with leg or facial injuries from a firework explosion. Police responded and learned that five people had minor injuries from sparks from a firework.

The residents were issued a warning for their use of fireworks without a permit.

Faas cautioned residents to use caution when setting off commercial fireworks.

“As we get closer to the Fourth, we’re going to have more people setting off more fireworks. Be smart, use them as they are intended to be used, and get permits,” Faas said.

Rindge Fire and Police were assisted on the scene by the Jaffrey Fire Department, the Souhegan Valley Ambulance, the Peterborough Ambulance and the Great Brook Ambulance.

In Rindge, a permit for Class C fireworks costs $10, and $100 for Class B fireworks. Applications must be submitted by the landowner where the fireworks discharge is to occur, or with the landowner’s written permission. Fireworks in Rindge must be ignited a minimum of 50 feet from any structures or overhead utilities, with a means of fire extinguishment nearby, and on a day when fire danger is no more than moderate, among other restrictions.

Failure to comply with permit requirements can result in a written warning for a first offense, fines of up to $250 for a second offense and $500 for a third offense.

The Rindge Fire Department offers the following safety reminders:

  • Never place any part of your body over a firework when lighting it. Keep a bucket of water, hose, or extinguisher nearby in case of fire or malfunction. Do not pick up or try to relight fireworks that have not ignited fully.
  • Be mindful of pets and wildfire risk. Fireworks can frighten pets, causing them to run away. Use caution to prevent wildfires, particularly in dry conditions.
  • Never allow young children to play with or ignite fireworks, including sparklers. Sparklers can reach temperatures of more than 2,000 degrees Fahrenheit and cause serious burns. Consider alternatives such as glow sticks, popping streamers or confetti.
  • Use fireworks outdoors in a clear, open area away from homes, vehicles, dry grass and trees. Dispose of fireworks by soaking them in water and placing them in a metal trash can away from buildings and flammable materials.
  • Notify neighbors, especially those with young children, elderly family members or pets, before using fireworks.

Rindge’s fireworks permit is available at rindgefire.org.