MARSHFIELD, Mass. — Boston isn't the only community gearing up for big crowds in the hot holiday weather, as Marshfield prepares to have all officers on duty for July 3.
Marshfield Police Chief Phil Tavares said the night before the Fourth of July ends up being the busiest night of the year, and the heat is not helping.
"We'll have fires, illegal fireworks displays," Tavares said. "Lots and lots of people partying along the coastal areas."
Workers preparing for a two-day music festival felt the heat on Tuesday, along with beach-goers in the area.
"It is stifling," Linda Falco said. "It's exhausting, especially when you have four kids with you and a dog."
Falco said it's her first time in Marshfield for July 3, and said she plans to stay safe and focus on hydrating.
"I was told a lot of these houses will do a fireworks display, and it's very fly by the seat of your pants," Falco said.
Tavares said the night has been the busiest for decades, and the hot weather and chance for sporadic storms is making the planning more challenging.
"When you add heat, fire, alcohol, it's a recipe for disaster," Tavares said.
Marshfield Police Lieutenant Arthur Shaw said the situation calls for extreme measures.
"It's all hands on deck here," Shaw said. "Everyone will be here."
The town has set up lights at some of the beaches to help to prevent dark areas, where police say there has been a history of underage drinking problems.
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"If it's lit up, they won't go in there," Shaw said. "They are gong to see it is all lit up and no place to hide."
Police say years ago they used to average about 100 arrests on this night, but they've managed to cut that number down considerably.
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