Fireworks

FIRE WORKS

Did you know....

According to PREVENT BLINDNESS AMERICA, nearly 13,000 fireworks victims keep hospitals busy every year. More than half of those injured are children. Fireworks not only injure users, but also 40 percent of fireworks mishaps injure bystanders.

The three types of fireworks that keep hospital emergency rooms busy during this holiday period are bottle rockets, firecrackers, and sparklers. Bottle rockets and firecrackers can fly in any direction prior to exploding and sparklers burn at temperatures hot enough to melt gold.

One of the reasons fireworks injuries continue to occur is because people just don't consider how dangerous these devices can be. People often don't realize - until they are injured - that the risk of blindness or injury outweighs the excitement of taking risks with fireworks. And giving fireworks to young children can mean a trip to the hospital emergency room.

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Setting off Fire Works, including bottle caps, fire crackers and sparklers is illegal in the State of New Jersey without a permit, insurance and a Licensed Pyrotechnic operator.

If you plan to set off fireworks to celebrate Independence Day in the Township of West Milford you must obtain an application from the Township Clerk. The application must be approved by the Town Council, Police Department and Fire Department. Once your application has been approved you must adhere to the New Jersey State Law "Fireworks Outdoor Displays."

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Last modified: December 13, 2003

FIREWORKS OUTDOOR DISPLAYS

PERMIT REQUIRED

Permits are required to conduct a fireworks display. (UFC 2.7(b)5.iii. NFPA 1123,5—3)

Prior approval of municipal governing body is required. (UFC 3.27(b)2)

Insurance of at least $500,000 for the payment of damages to persons or property shall be provided. (UFC 3.27(b)2.ii)

INSPECTION REQUIRED

Fire Inspector(s) must inspect site, fireworks, equipment, installation and display. (UFC 18A:3.3(a)5, NFPA 1123,3—1.2)

Immediate compliance with Fire Marshal orders is required or permits may be revoked. (UFC 2.7(g)).

PYROTECHNIC OPERATOR QUALIFICATIONS

Fireworks displays shall be under the direct supervision of a pyrotechnic operator. (NFPA 1123,4—1.3)

The pyrotechnic operator shall be responsible for all aspects of a pyrotechnic display. (NFPA 1123,4—1.3)

The pyrotechnic operator shall be at least 21 years old. (NFPA 1123,5—1.1)

Assistants or helpers must be 18 years old and operate under direct supervision of permittee. (NFPA 1123,5—2)

The operator is responsible for ensuring that all assistants are fully trained. (NFPA 1123,4—1.3.2)

No person shall be allowed in the discharge area while under the influence of alcohol, drugs, etc. (NFPA 1123,4—1.8)

LOCATION:

Fireworks storage, display and fallout areas must be approved by the Fire Marshal. (UFC 3.27(b)2.i.)

SITE SAFETY & SECURITY OPERATIONS

The pyrotechnic operator or promoter shall employ monitors who’s sole duty shall be the enforcement of crowd control around the display area. Unauthorized persons shall not be allowed to enter the discharge site until the site has been inspected after the display by the pyrotechnic operator. (NFPA 1123,4—1.2)

The fire inspector or pyrotechnic operator may immediately STOP the display for safety. (NFPA 1123,4—1.4)

Display operators shall use only flashlights or electric lighting for illumination. (NFPA 1123,4—1.5)