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New Jersey Division of Fire Safety (NJDFS) Director and State Fire Marshal Richard Mikutsky today issued fireworks safety tips, including the safe use of ground-based sparkling devices and novelties, in advance of the upcoming Fourth of July holiday.
“The Fourth of July is an opportunity to gather with family and friends to celebrate our country’s independence,” said Lt. Governor Sheila Oliver, who serves as Commissioner of the Department of Community Affairs (DCA). “If you choose to use legal ground-based fireworks, please follow all recommended guidelines and exercise extreme caution to keep you and your loved ones stay safe from injury.”
“To ensure a safe Fourth of July weekend, we strongly urge people to attend public firework displays that are handled by professionals,” said State Fire Marshal Mikutsky. “If you use non-aerial and novelty fireworks like sparklers, please remember they are very dangerous and should always be handled with extreme caution. Sparklers account for roughly one-quarter of emergency room fireworks injuries. We recommend glow sticks for children, which glow in the dark and are a safe alternative to sparklers.”
While non-aerial sparkling devices are legal in New Jersey, they can still burn people. The temperature of one sparkler can reach about 1,200 degrees Fahrenheit and is not intended for children.
You can view and download a visual guide of which devices are legal and which are not on DCA’s website.
The Division of Fire Safety serves as the central fire service agency in the state. The Division is responsible for the development and enforcement of the State Uniform Fire Code, as well as engaging the public on community risk reduction strategies, assisting in fire department preparedness, and conducting firefighter training programs.
DCA offers a wide range of programs and services, including energy assistance, housing vouchers, affordable housing production, fire and building safety, community planning and development, local government management and finance, and disaster recovery and mitigation.
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