Cherry Hill Police Safety Tips For Handling 4th Of July Fireworks

CHERRY HILL, NJ — Independence Day is in a few days (I know, crazy right?), and the Cherry Hill Police Department has issued safety guidelines for handling fireworks. In June 2017, a state law was signed allowing certain types of fireworks to be sold in New Jersey. Now, they can be purchased in local stores.

“Above all, the best way to enjoy fireworks is by watching a local professional firework display to avoid any injuries or burns,” Cherry Hill police said.

If you do choose to buy consumer fireworks, police recommend the following safety guidelines

• Do not allow children to play with fireworks
• Do not try to make your own fireworks
• Do not throw or point fireworks at someone
• Do not hold fireworks in your hand or stand over them while lighting
• Do not try to relight a dud firework.

They also passed along the following safety tips from the National Council on Fireworks Safety:

Obey all local laws regarding the use of fireworks.

• Know your fireworks; read the cautionary labels and performance descriptions before igniting.
• A responsible adult should supervise all firework activities. *Never give fireworks to children.
• Alcohol and fireworks do not mix. Save your alcohol for after the show.
• Wear safety glasses when shooting fireworks.
• Light one firework at a time and then quickly move away.
• Use fireworks outdoors in a clear area away from buildings and vehicles.
• Never relight a “dud” firework. Wait 20 minutes and then soak it in a bucket of water.
• Always have a bucket of water and charged water hose nearby.
• Never carry fireworks in your pocket or shoot them into metal or glass containers.
• Do not experiment with homemade fireworks.
• Dispose of spent fireworks by wetting them down and place in a metal trash can away from any building or combustible materials until the next day.

See related: Cherry Hill 4th of July Fireworks: 2019 Guide, Scheduled Time