In view of Fourth of July holiday, Ocean County officials warn of fireworks dangers

The rumble of fireworks on the Fourth of July is a custom that dates back to the founding of our nation. To safely enjoy the blast and kaleidoscope of colors, Ocean County officials are urging people to leave the fireworks to the professionals and enjoy one or more of the many public displays planned for the long holiday weekend.

“It is illegal to purchase, possess and use fireworks in New Jersey unless you are a licensed professional staging a show,” Freeholder Director Joseph H. Vicari said in a press release.

According to federal statistics, fireworks injure nearly 10,000 people every year throughout the United States. The vast majority of those injuries occur during the two weeks leading up to and following July 4th, the release stated.

Photo by Jack Reynolds
Although exciting, fireworks pose serious risks.

“If you attempt to use these illegal devices, you are going to get hurt,” Vicari warned.

He said he is especially concerned because many types of fireworks that are for sale in some other states but are illegal in New Jersey are marketed toward children.

“The explosive power of these devices is astounding,” said Vicari. “Under those enticing wrappings are dangerous and volatile explosives and projectiles capable of maiming and killing. Even a sparkler burns at nearly 1,000 degrees.”

Possession of fireworks is a disorderly persons offense, but possession with the intent to sell is a fourth-degree offense, with a possible maximum penalty of 18 months imprisonment and fines up to $10,000.

“Do not travel out of state and buy fireworks,” said Freeholder John P. Kelly, director of law and public safety. “It may be legal to buy them, but it is illegal to bring them back across state lines and use them in New Jersey.”

He said local police departments will be on the lookout for illegal fireworks leading up to Independence Day.

Fireworks are a danger to users and those who may be in close proximity.

“When you light that fuse, you never know what is going to happen,” Kelly said. “A rocket can fly out of control and strike a child or land on a roof and start a fire.” 

Most fireworks are made in China, and many times the fuses are unreliable, he added.

Fireworks-related injuries can range from severe burns to disfigurement.

“We’ve seen reports across the country of people who have blown off their fingers or suffered disfiguring injuries because the seemingly harmless firecracker they were holding suddenly exploded in their hand or near their face,” said Freeholder Gerry P. Little, liaison to the Ocean County Health Department.

Vicari, liaison to tourism, said there will be numerous opportunities to safely enjoy fireworks on Independence Day. A listing of professional fireworks displays is posted on the county’s newly updated tourism website at oceancountytourism.com.

When attending a display, Vicari suggests leaving pets at home because many dogs and other animals are scared of the loud noises made by fireworks.

He said the Humane Society of the United States has released guidelines on how to protect animals during the holiday weekend. The guidelines warn against leaving a pet in the car. With only hot air to breathe inside the automobile, a pet can experience serious health effects or even death in a few minutes. Partially opened windows do not provide sufficient air, but they do offer a chance for pets to be stolen.

Pets should be kept inside, at home, in a sheltered, quiet area. Some animals can become destructive when frightened, so be sure to remove any items that the pet could destroy or that would be harmful if chewed. Leave a television or radio playing at normal volume for company.

If a pet is seriously distressed by loud noises such as thunder, pet owners should seek advice from a veterinarian before July 4th for ways to help lessen the fear and anxiety the pet might undergo during fireworks displays.

Never leave pets unattended outside, even in a fenced yard or on a chain. Out of fear, pets that normally would not leave the yard may escape and become lost, or become entangled in their chain, risking injury or death.

Also, make sure pets are wearing identification tags so that they can be promptly returned if they do become lost. Animals found running loose should be taken to the local animal shelter, where they will have the best chance of being reunited with their owners.

“By following these simple rules, we make sure the holiday weekend is enjoyable for both our families and our pets,” Vicari said.

— Kelley Anne Essinger


This article was published in The SandPaper.