In Maplewood: Get Ready For July 4th With Our Independence Day Primer

Whether you’re planning on hitting the road or enjoying a quiet weekend at home this 4th of July weekend, it pays to know what you’re up against.

HOW’S THE WEATHER?

As of July 1, forecasters are calling for relatively clear and sunny skies for the Independence Day weekend in Northern New Jersey, with temperatures that may reach into the mid-80s.

See your hour-by-hour local weather forecast by clicking here.

SNAP SOME PICTURES

Capture a great image this holiday weekend? Send your best photo with credit and caption info to eric.kiefer@patch.com for possible publication.

If you’re a beginning photographer, brush up on the basics with these tips, courtesy of PCMag.com.

FIREWORKS AND THE LAW

According to the New Jersey Department of Labor and Workforce Development, the sale, use, distribution or possession of fireworks is illegal in the state without a permit.

“Sparkler and novelty items, such as cigarette loads, trick matches, trick noise makers, smoke grenades, toy propellants, snaps and pops, poppettes and champagne poppers, as well as firecrackers, roman candles and rockets are all illegal in this state,” says BestOfNJ.com.

Click here for more information about fireworks laws in New Jersey.

See related story: Essex County Man Arrested For Bringing Fireworks Through Holland Tunnel

BE SAFE

The American Red Cross North Jersey Region offers some easy safety tips to follow this weekend:

• When using a grill, always have someone supervising, never cook indoors and keep the grill out in the open, away from the house, the deck, tree branches, or anything that could catch fire.
• When relaxing around swimming pools and bodies of water, always swim with a buddy, and provide close and constant attention to children.
• When driving, pay full attention to the road – don’t use a cell phone to call or text.

FIND CHEAP GAS

Planning to hit the road instead? Gas up before you leave at one of the below stations.