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June 30, 2005

Mayor Urges Compliance with State Law Banning Possession and Use

Woodbridge Mayor Frank G. Pelzman is reminding residents that setting off fireworks is not only dangerous but against the law.

“Consumer possession and use of fireworks is illegal in all of New Jersey,” says Mayor Pelzman. “Our police department has been instructed to be on the lookout and to issue summonses to anyone violating this state law.”

New Jersey is one of six states that ban all consumer fireworks. Selling fireworks is a fourth-degree crime with penalties of up to $7,500 in fines and up to 18 months in prison. The penalty for illegal possession or use of fireworks can be as high as $500 and/or imprisonment for up to 30 days.

According to the National Fire Protection Association, approximately 12,000 people in the United States are treated in hospital emergency rooms each year for injuries associated with fireworks, with consumer sparklers, bottle rockets and firecrackers causing nearly 60 percent of all injuries. It is estimated that fires started by fireworks annually cause $30-35 million in property damage to structures and vehicles.

M-80’s, M-100’s, M-250’s, M-1000’s and similar devices are classified as “explosives” rather than fireworks. Even sparklers can burn at 1,200 degrees Fahrenheit or higher.

“Many fireworks devices are actually small, unstable bombs that can explode in the hands of unwary users, and often maim, blind and kill,” says Mayor Pelzman.

In addition, he adds, actions by children under the age of 18 are the legal responsibility of parents. “We’re asking the public to be our eyes and ears when it comes to illegal fireworks,” says Mayor Pelzman. “By doing so, they’ll help keep July 4 th a safe holiday in Woodbridge.”