Gloucester County Government: Firework Safety Tips From The Office Of The Fire Marshal

Press release from the Gloucester County Government:

July 1, 2021

(Clayton, NJ)—The Board of Commissioners and the Office of the Fire Marshal wish everyone a happy, safe Fourth of July.

Ahead of the July 4th holiday, the Office of the Fire Marshal would like to offer tips on how to stay safe while enjoying your festivities.

“It is extremely important to practice the correct safety precautions while enjoying your holiday,” said Commissioner Director Robert M. Damminger. “The Office of the Fire Marshal has advised that ground based sparkling devices and novelties are now legal in New Jersey, but there are a few safety tips to follow.”

Aerial fireworks are still prohibited in the State of New Jersey.

Firework safety tips include:

• NEVER ALLOW CHILDREN TO PLAY WITH OR IGNITE FIREWORKS 
• Only ignite fireworks outdoors and away from houses and buildings 
• Always read and follow label directions, warnings and instructions prior to use
• Be considerate of your neighbors 
• Light only one firework at a time 
• Never try to re-light fireworks that have not fully functioned 
• Never give fireworks to small children, even sparklers cause serious burns 
• Be sure other people are out of range before lighting fireworks 
• Never throw fireworks at another person, vehicle or animal 
• Never carry fireworks in your pocket 
• Never shoot fireworks in metal or glass containers 
• Dispose of spent fireworks properly 

“The Office of Emergency Management and the Office of the Fire Marshal work year-round to keep our residents safe,” advised Commissioner Dan Christy, liaison to the Office of the Fire Marshal. “Pay close attention to your surroundings while lighting fireworks and sparklers, the more open the area is the safer it will be.”

If residents have any further questions about ordinances on fireworks, they should feel free to reach out to their local fire department or call the Office of the Fire Marshal at (856) 307-7912.

This press release was produced by the Gloucester County Government. The views expressed here are the author’s own.