FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: Thursday, May 24, 2018

 

Non-Aerial Fireworks Such As Hand-Held Sparklers, Ground-Based Sparklers, Poppers, and Snappers Are Legal in the State

TRENTON, NJ – In advance of the Memorial Day and Fourth of July holiday celebrations, the New Jersey Department of Community Affairs’ (DCA) Division of Fire Safety issued firework safety guidelines to help the public understand the recent change in the state’s fireworks regulation.

Sales and use of non-aerial fireworks such as hand-held sparklers, ground-based sparklers, and novelty fireworks like poppers and snappers are now legal in the state.

“While non-aerial fireworks are legal in New Jersey, it is important to remember that any fireworks are inherently dangerous because they can burn people, animals, and property,” said Lt. Governor Sheila Y. Oliver, DCA Commissioner. “We urge the public, especially people with young children under their care, to review the state’s firework safety guidelines and to use fireworks with an abundance of caution.”

“Sparklers can be an invitation to personal injury and should not be treated as toys for children. In fact, one sparkler can reach about 1,200˚F, which can cause third degree burns and serious eye injury to anyone handling it,” Lt. Governor Oliver added.

The sale and use of large fireworks, namely any fuse lit or aerial explosive, is still strictly prohibited in the state.

“People should call their municipality or county to find out when public fireworks displays are scheduled. These displays are conducted by professionals and are a great way to safely celebrate the holidays with the community,” said Acting State Fire Marshal and Division of Fire Safety Director Richard Mikutsky.

In the event people decide to use non-aerial fireworks, Acting State Fire Marshal Mikutsky urges them to follow these safely guidelines:

  • Only buy from reputable places;
  • Don’t buy if packaging is damaged or appears tampered with;
  • Don’t try and “fix” broken or “dud” fireworks;
  • Never use indoors;
  • Don’t use in very windy or dry conditions;
  • Always have water handy and follow manufacturer’s instructions;
  • Never relight a “dud” firework;
  • Never aim a firework at yourself, another person, animals, or buildings;
  • Wait 20 minutes to dispose of properly.

When disposing of fireworks, completely soak used or “dud” fireworks in a bucket of water and allow them to soak overnight. Then double wrap the soaked fireworks in plastic wrap or a plastic bag to help keep them from drying out and place the wrapped fireworks in regular household garbage.

The Division of Fire Safety serves as the central fire service agency in New Jersey. The Division is responsible for the development and enforcement of the State Uniform Fire Code, as well as for implementing community risk reduction and firefighter training programs.

CONTACT:
Tammori Petty
or Lisa Ryan
(609) 292-6055