No Fireworks For Diwali, Officials Tell South Brunswick Residents

SOUTH BRUNSWICK, NJ — Diwali, one of the biggest festivals for the Indian American community will be a little different this year.

Usually, Diwali is celebrated with fireworks, but this year, the South Brunswick Fire Marshal is asking residents to refrain from using any type of fireworks due to dry weather conditions.

Diwali will be officially celebrated from Oct. 31 to Nov. 1.

The Garden State is currently under a Stage 3 burn restriction, imposed by the New Jersey Forest Fire Service, due to the extreme drought conditions statewide. Under the restrictions, no wood fires, coal fires, or open fires are allowed.

In addition, the State of New Jersey Division of Fire Safety has issued a directive to all New Jersey Fire Prevention Bureaus to not issue permits for the discharging of fireworks.

"As we approach the celebration of Diwali, we strongly discourage the use of fireworks purchased in New Jersey stores, to ensure everyone’s safety," Fire Marshal John J, Funcheon said.

"In addition, the purchase, possession, and discharging of fireworks, purchased outside of New Jersey, is illegal and prohibited by New Jersey State law."

Over the weekend, several fires were reported across the Garden State, claiming a life and causing damage to property and forests.

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