For Immediate Release:
June 30, 2012
County at heightened sensitivity for fireworks
Officials remind residents, fireworks are illegal and dangerous
OCEANPORT, NJ – Monmouth County residents are reminded that consumer possession of fireworks is illegal in New Jersey and that a fire started by fireworks put further strain on emergency services throughout Monmouth County.
"With the Independence Day holiday upon us, it is important to understand the risks of illegal fireworks,” Freeholder Director John P. Curley said. “Our current water emergency makes this even more critical.
Monmouth County is under a countywide state of emergency following a water main break at the Swimming River Reservoir Friday afternoon. All county residents have been directed to cease all outdoor water use.
Twenty two towns serviced by New Jersey American Water Co. are under a “boil-water advisory” as well. The affected towns are Aberdeen, Fair Haven, Highlands, Holmdel, Little Silver, Middletown, Rumson, Oceanport, Sea Bright, Tinton Falls, Shrewsbury, Long Branch, Eatontown, West Long Branch, Deal, Allenhurst, Loch Arbour, Neptune, Monmouth Beach, Lake Como and Shrewsbury and Ocean townships.
Residents should be following the water restrictions and staying clear of fireworks,” Sheriff Shaun Golden said. Law enforcement will not tolerate the use of fireworks by consumers. Be safe and be smart: leave the fireworks displays to the trained professionals.
Our professional and volunteer firefighters and emergency medical responders are assisting with response to this water emergency, Fire Marshal Henry Stryker III said, "Let's help them remain focused on that task."
Last week the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) released its Fireworks report which explores fire and injury dangers related to consumer fireworks. The report shows that in 2010, an estimated 15,500 reported fires were started by fireworks and 8,600 fireworks-related injuries were treated in U.S. hospital emergency rooms. It also shows that there are more fires on a typical Fourth of July than any other day of the year. Fireworks account for two out of five of those fires, more than any other cause of fires.
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