*** For Immediate Release *** July 1, 2020
The Wildwood City Fire Department would like to remind all of our residents and visitors of the dangers associated with fireworks. Over the past couple months, there has been a notable increase nationwide in the use of consumer fireworks. In 2017, New Jersey law was amended to allow for certain types of fireworks to be sold and used in New Jersey. These items include non-aerial devices such as sparklers, smoke devices, and ground-based sparklers. New Jersey law strictly prohibits the sale or use of bottle rockets, fire crackers, roman candles, and aerial devices.
According to the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) fireworks cause more than 19,500 fires annually. In addition, nearly 9,100 injuries occur that require emergency room visits, most of which occur around the month of the July 4th holiday. 44% of these injuries are burns and children ages 10-14 had the highest rate of fireworks injuries with more than 36% of victims being under the age of 15. Sparklers burn at nearly 1,200 degrees Fahrenheit which can cause significant burn injuries to anyone who comes into contact with them.
This year, due to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, most professional public fireworks displays have been canceled. While this is certainly disappointing we urge residents and visitors to find safe ways to celebrate the July 4th Holiday Weekend.
Stay safe and have a Happy Independence Day!
Fire Chief, Ernie Troiano III, CPM and Deputy Fire Chief, Daniel M. Dunn, CPM
The City of Wildwood Fire Department
4400 New Jersey Avenue
Wildwood, New Jersey 08260
Phone 609-846-2061
Fax 609-522-4965
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