Don't even think about using illegal fireworks in town this year.

That's because Woodbridge police have again begun increased neighborhood patrols as part of a crackdown on the use of illegal fireworks by residents and visitors as part of a quality-of-life initiative the town has been conducting for the past few years.

Both marked and unmarked police vehicles will be on patrols throughout the 24-square mile community on the days leading up to the July 4th weekend and will respond to any location where illegal fireworks are in use, Mayor John E. McCormac announced.

In addition, township police also will respond to any complaints or instances where the use of illegal fireworks jeopardizes public safety. Officers will take appropriate action such as arresting violators, issuing summonses and confiscating illegal fireworks. In the past several dozen summonses have been issued, according to township officials.

"There are many veterans in town with PTSD and many kids and pets who react very negatively to the loud sounds and it's just not right for people to set off illegal fireworks," McCormac said.

In advance of Fourth of July holiday celebrations, the New Jersey Department of Community Affairs’ (DCA) Division of Fire Safety issued firework safety guidelines to help the public understand the recent change in the state’s fireworks regulation.

Sales and use of non-aerial fireworks such as hand-held sparklers, ground-based sparklers, and novelty fireworks like poppers and snappers are now legal in the state.

“While non-aerial fireworks are legal in New Jersey, it is important to remember that any fireworks are inherently dangerous because they can burn people, animals, and property,” said Lt. Governor Sheila Y. Oliver, DCA Commissioner. “We urge the public, especially people with young children under their care, to review the state’s firework safety guidelines and to use fireworks with an abundance of caution.”

“Sparklers can be an invitation to personal injury and should not be treated as toys for children. In fact, one sparkler can reach about 1,200˚F, which can cause third degree burns and serious eye injury to anyone handling it,” Lt. Governor Oliver added.

The sale and use of large fireworks, namely any fuse lit or aerial explosive, is still strictly prohibited in the state.

“People should call their municipality or county to find out when public fireworks displays are scheduled. These displays are conducted by professionals and are a great way to safely celebrate the holidays with the community,” said Acting State Fire Marshal and Division of Fire Safety Director Richard Mikutsky.

In the event people decide to use non-aerial fireworks, Acting State Fire Marshal Mikutsky urges them to follow these safely guidelines:

Only buy from reputable places;
Don’t buy if packaging is damaged or appears tampered with;
Don’t try and “fix” broken or “dud” fireworks;
Never use indoors;
Don’t use in very windy or dry conditions;
Always have water handy and follow manufacturer’s instructions;
Never relight a “dud” firework;
Never aim a firework at yourself, another person, animals, or buildings;
Wait 20 minutes to dispose of properly.
When disposing of fireworks, completely soak used or “dud” fireworks in a bucket of water and allow them to soak overnight. Then double wrap the soaked fireworks in plastic wrap or a plastic bag to help keep them from drying out and place the wrapped fireworks in regular household garbage.

T