Massachusetts § 12 - Fire alarm, engine or apparatus; injury during fire to prevent alarm or extinction of fire
Full text of Massachusetts Massachusetts General Laws § 12 — Fire alarm, engine or apparatus; injury during fire to prevent alarm or extinction of fire, with citation guidance and answers to common questions.
§ 12. Fire alarm, engine or apparatus; injury during fire to prevent alarm or extinction of fire
Section 12. Whoever, during the burning of a building or other property, wilfully and maliciously cuts or removes a bell rope or a wire or conduit connected with a fire alarm signal system or injures or disables any fire alarm signal box or any part of such system in the vicinity of such building or property, or otherwise prevents an alarm being given, or whoever cuts, injures or destroys an engine, hose or other fire apparatus, in said vicinity, or otherwise wilfully and maliciously prevents or obstructs the extinction of a fire shall be punished by imprisonment in the state prison for not more than seven years or in jail for not more than two and one half years or by a fine of not more than one thousand dollars.
Source: official Massachusetts text · Last verified 2026-08-27
Frequently Asked Questions About Massachusetts § 12
What does Massachusetts General Laws § 12 cover?
Section 12 ("Fire alarm, engine or apparatus; injury during fire to prevent alarm or extinction of fire") is part of the Massachusetts General Laws, the codified statutory law of Massachusetts. It sets out the legal rule or procedure described in the text above. Statutes are amended regularly, so always verify against the official source.
How do I cite Massachusetts § 12?
A common citation format is "Massachusetts General Laws § 12" (Massachusetts). Legal writing may require the code abbreviation, section number, and year or edition. Match the style required by your court, professor, or publisher.
Is this the official text of Massachusetts law?
No. This page is for research and education and may not include the most recent amendments. For official current law, check the Massachusetts official source linked on this page or consult a licensed Massachusetts attorney.
How does Massachusetts § 12 apply to my situation?
Statutes are interpreted in context, and application depends on your specific facts. Only a licensed attorney in Massachusetts can advise on how this section applies to you. Contact your state or local bar association for a referral.
Sources & Verification
Not legal advice. Verify against the official source and consult a licensed attorney in Massachusetts.