WORCESTER, Mass. - The Worcester Police Department received over 400 fireworks complaints last year, a significant decrease from the nearly 2,000 complaints police received in 2020.

Complaints peaked last year between June and July, with police receiving a total of 302 complaints during those two months. 

Although police couldn't provide specifics, Lieutenant Sean Murtha said complaints are down this year, but it's still an issue. 

Fireworks are illegal in Massachusetts. The Worcester Police and Fire departments are working together to address complaints. 

Murtha said extra officers will be on patrol looking for the use of fireworks over the 4th of July weekend.

“It is illegal. You could be charged criminally for doing it. We respond to a scene where people are setting up fireworks. Possession is a crime so it could potentially become a charge,” Murtha said. “Usually it doesn't come to that, but it is an option."

Murtha said the pandemic played a big role in the increase of firework use two years ago, as more people spent more time at home.