Division of Fire Safety Reminds Residents

That Individual Fireworks Are Illegal in New Jersey


 

TRENTON, N.J. – The New Jersey Department of Community Affairs' (DCA) Division of Fire Safety today issued its annual reminder in advance of July 4th to all residents of New Jersey that consumer fireworks are illegal at any time.

"The July 4th holiday weekend is a time of fun and celebration for people throughout New Jersey," said DCA Commissioner Lori Grifa. "I encourage everyone to enjoy themselves and spend time with their friends and family. But leave the fireworks to professionals."

In New Jersey, fireworks are only to be used by licensed professionals in state-sanctioned fireworks displays. The sale, use, possession, or transport of fireworks by consumers within the state is strictly prohibited by law.

The United States Fire Administration (USFA) issued statistic reports which highlight reasons for the ban.

FIREWORKS FACTS

  • 18,000 – Estimated number of fires caused annually by fireworks.

  • 8,600 – Estimated number of injuries caused by fireworks in 2010.

  • 3 – Actual number of deaths resulting directly from fireworks in 2010.

  • $38 million – Amount of direct property loss caused by fireworks in 2009.

  • 2000 – Degrees Fahrenheit that a simple sparkler can reach, which is high enough to melt metal and cause third degree burns.


The State of New Jersey’s individual fireworks ban is to ensure safety, not to dampen participation in celebrating the nation’s independence. 

"New Jersey is home to – and in close proximity of – several world-class fireworks displays and these are all excellent opportunities for residents to participate in the festivities," Commissioner Grifa said. 

The USFA also noted that New Jersey communities, which traditionally host pyrotechnic displays, are permitted and monitored to ensure the highest level of public safety.

Residents are encouraged to visit the official State of New Jersey website www.state.nj.us or use the search terms "fireworks/displays/New Jersey" to get specific up-to-the-minute listings of locally scheduled events.

For more information on the DFS, call (609) 633-6106 or log on to http://www.nj.gov/dca/divisions/dfs/. For nationwide data regarding the dangers of fireworks, please log on to http://www.usfa.dhs.gov/ and http://www.cpsc.gov/library/2010fwreport.pdf.

###