Wanna Piss Off An Emergency Responder In Massachusetts?
I was on a jog this morning and during my normal looking around at the neighborhood houses, I came across a home that had their address displayed in massively sized numbers on their front door. I was like, wow, there is no mistaking what this guy's house number is!
Numbers On The Mailbox is Required, But It's Not Enough...
So, after thinking about it, I realized that hey, I don't think have numbers on my front door! Whoever lived in the house before me, though, had them on the original front door because I can see the number's outline on it.
As my run continued, I sort of noticed that MOST, if not all, houses did have their number on them. This got me questioning if I was breaking the law. I mean, I certainly am not not displaying my house number for any reason, they're just not on the door! I do have my address on my mailbox, though, so, I'm not a total jerk.
So, Is It Illegal Not To Display Your House Number In Massachusetts?
Yes it is! Why?
Well, the main reason...
Seconds Count in an Emergency
• Protect your family and your property by having large visible house numbers.
• Firefighters, police officers, and paramedics find you faster when your home is properly marked.
• A visitor, child or injured person may be unable to give clear directions.
• Emergency personnel from a neighboring community may be unfamiliar with your area.
Use Large Visible Numbers
• Numbers need to be at least 4-inches in height and facing the street.
• Put the numbers under lighting, and use numbers with a contrasting background, so they will be visible at night.
• Be sure to use the E-911 address for the property.
• If your driveway is long, post your house number on both sides of a mailbox or sign pole at the end of the driveway near the road.
• Be sure to keep numbers visible by trimming trees and bushes.
It’s the Law!
• Massachusetts General Laws C. 148, S. 59. specifies that every building in the state must have clearly visible address numbers posted.
Information courtesy of mass.gov
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