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Officials: Leave The Fireworks To The Professionals
OCEAN COUNTY - The mannequin would have been much safer taking in a professional fireworks display over the coming July 4th weekend.
Instead, the faux human played the victim of illegal fireworks and literally went to pieces as part of a demonstration showing the explo- sive power of firecrackers.
County and law enforcement officials gathered at the Toms River Township Fire Academy to warn people of the dangers posed by fireworks, illegally purchased or brought into the state.
"We're not here offering safety tips on how to use fireworks," said Freeholder Joseph H. Vicari. "We're here to tell you that fireworks are illegal and anyone caught with them during the holiday, or anytime, will face criminal charges."
According to federal statistics, fireworks injure nearly 10,000 people every year throughout the United States. The vast majority of those injuries occur during the two weeks leading up to and following July 4th.
"If you attempt to use these illegal devices, you are going to get hurt," Vicari said.
The power of the explosive devices was demonstrated firsthand at the fire academy, when fireworks of various sizes burned and blew chunks off a mannequin.
"Children are especially attracted to fireworks," Vicari said. "We've all seen the out-of-state stores that offer hundreds of varieties of fireworks in brightly colored packages."
But Vicari, who is liaison to the Ocean County Department of Consumer Affairs, warned that under the fancy packaging lies a dangerous amount of explosive force.
"Fireworks are not toys," he said. "Even a sparkler burns at nearly 1,000 degrees."
In New Jersey, it is illegal to sell or use any type of fireworks. Selling or possession of fireworks with an intent to sell is a fourth degree crime, punishable by up to 18 months in jail and a $10,000 fine, said Ocean County Prosecutor Thomas Kelaher.
Simply igniting illegal fireworks is a disorderly persons offense punishable by $1,000 fine and up to 30 days in jail, said Freeholder Director John P. Kelly.
"The only fireworks that are legal in New Jersey are those used in shows under the control of licensed professionals," Kelly said.
Kelly, who is director of law and public safety for the county, said anyone witnessing the use of illegal fireworks should call their local police department.
Toms River Township Police Chief Michael Mastronardy said his officers will be responding to fireworks complaints.
"Besides the danger of bodily harm, we've had reports of fireworks shot onto roofs or into the woods where they can start fires," he said.
Vicari said a listing of professional fireworks displays slated for the July 4th holiday is posted on the Ocean County homepage at www. co.ocean.nj.us.
"The best way to have a safe and happy July 4th is to leave the fireworks to the experts," Vicari said.
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