What Fireworks Can You Have At Your 4th Of July 2018 Party In NJ?

NEW JERSEY — With Fourth of July quickly approaching, its time to start planning your backyard barbecue and figure out which fireworks showings to attend. With the new fireworks rules in New Jersey, you can now use a select few types of fireworks in your own backyard. But do you know which ones?

Then-Gov. Chris Christie signed the fireworks bill into law just before Fourth of July in 2017, but few stores had stocks in time for the holiday. This year, finding fireworks are easy: most of the big box stores and supermarkets sell some type of pyrotechnics, but many types still remain illegal.

The only types of fireworks that are currently legal in New Jersey are handheld sparklers, ground-based sparklers, and novelty items like party popper and snappers.

All other fireworks, like explosive and aerial fireworks, sky rockets, firecrackers, bottle rockets, and Roman candles remain illegal in the state. Using banned fireworks is a disorderly persons offense and can carry a fine of up to $500. And don't think about buying them in Pennsylvania and driving them into Jersey to get around the rules-- they're illegal to possess and use in the Garden State, even if you legally bought them somewhere else.

While small children might be excited by the bright lights of handheld sparklers, all fireworks remain banned for children under the age of 16.

The law is designed to keep the most dangerous types of fireworks out of the hands of New Jersey revelers, but any type of open flame can be a safety risk. For those using fireworks for the first time, or for anyone who needs a safety refresher, here are 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.
• FAA regulations PROHIBIT the possession and transportation of fireworks in your checked baggage or carry-on luggage.
• Report illegal explosives, like M-80s and quarter sticks, to the fire or police department.

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