Ocean County Freeholders Warn Residents of Dangers of Illegal Fireworks Use
Like A trip to the beach or hot dogs on the grill, fireworks are a Fourth of July tradition.
However, illegal fireworks are notoriously unreliable and dangerous, and can quickly turn a holiday at the shore tragic.
“Once again we are asking everyone in Ocean County not to use illegal fireworks and instead enjoy one of the many professional displays scheduled for the holiday weekend,” said Freeholder Joseph H. Vicari.
Vicari was joined by county and local law enforcement and fire officials at the Ocean County Training Academy in Waretown to address the dangers of illegal fireworks.
“We’re not here offering safety tips on how to use fireworks,” Vicari said “We’re here to tell you that fireworks are illegal and anyone caught with them during the holiday, or anytime, will face criminal charges.”
According to federal statistics, fireworks injure nearly 10,000 people every year throughout the United States, said Stephen Scaturro, director of the Ocean County Department of Consumer Affairs.
The vast majority of those injuries occur during the two weeks leading up to and following July 4th, he said.
“If you attempt to use these illegal fireworks, you are going to get hurt,” Vicari said. “Even a sparkler burns at nearly 1,000 degrees.”
Freeholder Director Gerry P. Little said he is especially concerned that many types of fireworks – freely for sale in some other states but illegal in New Jersey – are marketed to children.
While they look like toys, wrapped in colorful paper with names like Conehead, Funky Fish and Rambo Kid, they are anything but.
“The explosive power of these devices is astounding,” Little said. “Under those enticing wrappings are dangerous and volatile explosives and projectiles capable of maiming and killing.”
In New Jersey, it is illegal to sell or use any type of fireworks, said Ocean County Assistant Prosecutor Bridget Coughlin.
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.
“The only fireworks that are legal in New Jersey are those used in shows under the control of licensed professionals,” Coughlin said.
Police departments throughout the county will be on the lookout for illegal fireworks from now through the holiday weekend and for the entire summer, she said.
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Ocean County Fire Marshal Daniel P. Mulligan warned that not only do illegal fireworks pack a powerful punch, but the devices are also notoriously unpredictable.
“You may have to light a fuse several times before it actually ignites,” he said. “People are often injured when the fireworks explode unexpectedly due to a faulty fuse.”
Illegal fireworks can also trigger brush and forest fires.
“Even a small bottle rocket or sparkler can start a major fire,” Mulligan said.
All of the officials at the press conference advised residents to avoid the physical harm, as well as the legal ramifications of illegal fireworks, by instead enjoying a professional fireworks display.
Vicari said there will be numerous opportunities to enjoy fireworks safely this Independence Day.
“Many of our towns will be hosting shows throughout the weekend,” he said.
A listing of professional fireworks shows for the entire county is posted on the Ocean County homepage at www.co.ocean.nj.us.
“For a real celebration and a happy Fourth of July, leave the fireworks to the experts,” Vicari said.
Posted by Ocean County News
on Jun 22 2012. Filed under Community, Jersey Shore.
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