Video Update for July 1
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SYUIsPWWINc
This is Mayor Paul Brodeur
The Massachusetts Department of Public Health has not yet published its weekly update for today, but we do know this: Yesterday was the first day with no reported deaths in Massachusetts caused by COVID-19. This is great news and demonstrates this importance and effectiveness of public health measures in place to prevent the spread of the virus.
The Baker administration has modified its requirement that all travelers arriving to Massachusetts, including residents returning home, must self-quarantine for 14-days. As of today, this guidance does not apply to travelers from Rhode Island, Connecticut, Vermont, New Hampshire, Maine, New York or New Jersey. Additionally, workers designated by the federal government as essential critical infrastructure workers are also exempt from this directive. Travelers who are displaying symptoms of COVID-19 are instructed to not travel to Massachusetts.
Importantly, the Baker administration has not changed the requirement that masks or face coverings in public places must be used where individuals cannot socially distance from others.
And a reminder about fireworks. There has been a recent increase in the use of illegal fireworks across Massachusetts. Perhaps this is because many traditional fireworks displays have been cancelled due to COVID-19. The Melrose Police Department reminds Melrosians that fireworks are in fact still illegal in Massachusetts. Furthermore, from 2010-2019, 858 major fires and explosions were reported to the Massachusetts Fire Incident Reporting System (MFIRS) due to the use of illegal fireworks. These incidents caused 12 civilian injuries, 40 firefighter injuries and approximately $2.9 million in property damage. Please visit the Melrose Police Department’s news blog on the department website for more information.
We won’t be having our traditional Independence Day events this weekend, but the Rec Department and the Melrose Spirit Squad are organizing some creative ways for Melrose to safely celebrate on July 4.
Take the Annual Bike & Carriage Parade to your neighborhood. Decorate your bike, wagon, carriage, scooter, skateboard, or other custom rides to continue this great tradition. This year instead of our getting together at the Common we ask our residents to circle their neighborhoods, local parks, and beautiful downtown areas with their fantastic rides.
Deck out your house, apartment window, front porch, or lawn with flags, lights, and some Melrose love. Have a great week, get ready for the 4th, and thanks again for all you are doing to keep the community safe. Together, we will get through this!