Ocean County officials are urging residents and visitors to be careful this Fourth of July and leave activities like fireworks to the professionals.
"We all enjoy fireworks displays and there are plenty being held throughout the county this year," said Freeholder Joseph H. Vicari. "My colleagues on the Board of Freeholders and I recommend you enjoy the public displays and not attempt to set up your own. Using fireworks not only puts yourself in jeopardy, but also those around you."
Fireworks injuries reported to United States hospital emergency rooms were estimated to be 8,800 in 2002, according to a press release from the freeholders.
"The safety of our residents is of the utmost importance to this board," said Freeholder John P. Kelly, Director of Law and Public Safety. "We hope everyone will enjoy the holiday in a safe way."
The Consumer Product Safety Commission notes that improper use of fireworks or illegal use of fireworks can result in deaths, blindings, amputations and severe burns.
"Detonation of these devices is best left to the professionals, because even fireworks that seem innocent can cause serious injury," said CPSC Chairman Hal Stratton. "For example, sparklers that are often used by young children burn at temperatures of 2,000 degrees."
"Plain and simple, fireworks are illegal in New Jersey," said Ocean County Prosecutor Thomas F. Kelaher. "Anyone possessing illegal fireworks can be charged with a disorderly persons violation and can be fined up to $1,000 or jailed for up to six months."
The following Ocean County towns will sponsor fireworks displays:
• Brick Township, July 3, beginning at dusk, Windward Beach.
• Dover Township, July 4, beginning at dusk, "Fireworks on Toms River."
• Jackson, July 4, beginning at dusk, Johnson Park.
• Lakehurst, July 4, beginning at dusk, Horicon Lake.
• Lakewood, July 4, beginning at dusk, Lake Carasaljo.
• Manchester Township, July 5, beginning at dusk, Harry Wright Lake, Whiting.
• Plumsted Township, July 5, beginning at dusk, New Egypt High School.
• Point Pleasant Beach, July 4, beginning at dusk, Jenkinson’s Beach.
• Seaside Heights, July 4, beginning at 9 p.m., oceanfront.