Fireworks: Proceed with Caution
Everyone knows fireworks can be fun, especially this time of year, but a lot of people don’t take into account the negative repercussions those pyrotechnic devices can bring.
The first problem: They're illegal in New Jersey along with many other states in the U.S. If you’re caught selling, owning or using fireworks within a state in which they’re illegal, you’ll undergo certain penalties determined by your state.
Besides the legal aspect, you always run the risk of someone getting hurt or property being damaged by using fireworks. A few people setting off fireworks in your backyard for summer fun could result in damage to your home, damage to your neighbor’s home or someone in the vicinity getting seriously injured.
If such instances occur, you could be liable for repairs, medical expenses or even legal attorney fees to defend yourself in a personal injury lawsuit case. That, in effect, means that there are a number of things at stake including:
- Your savings
- Equity in your home
- Equity in your business
- Your investments
- A portion of your future earnings
Bottom line: Most illegal activities are not covered by insurance and will cost you a lot of money if something goes wrong.
Unfortunately for fireworks lovers living in states in which they're illegal, you cannot get insurance coverage for this unless you have a pyrotechnic operator's license. But even with that license, coverage is likely very expensive.
If fireworks are legal in your state, you should check your home insurance and personal umbrella liability policy exclusions very carefully, as coverage may still not be there for you.
Fireworks fans beware...
Resident of Lacey
10:17 am on Saturday, June 23, 2012
Yes, it is a severe problem that fireworks are currently illegal in new jersey, and something that our lawmakers need to revisit. I am in favor of the legalization of fireworks in new jersey; however, under strict conditions. There are many reasons why this should be done:
Firstly, the state needs to increase revenue, through the legalization of fireworks sales tax revenue will benefit.
Next a program funded through fireworks permit sales would open up another stream of revenue to the county's and towns whose residents wish to enjoy fireworks safely.
More revenue could also be driven by safety training programs one would need to attend to have a permit issued to allow them to buy the fireworks.
Lastly; one more source of revenue for the town would be the fines levied on those whom opted not the file for and receive the correct permits.
Now would be a great time to urge our state lawmakers to look at this problem and make new jersey a safe state for fireworks. We don't need tougher laws with stronger penalties; we need legalization and education of the citizens to allow them to enjoy life safely.
Martin
10:43 am on Monday, June 25, 2012
Unbelieveable! Are you a fireworks company employee?
Grow up -- leave the shows to the pros -- and keep the threats to hearing, pets and flammable property out of our neighborhoods.
Uncle Moe
10:57 am on Monday, June 25, 2012
Legalize 'em! If people want to take those risks, that's their problem, and it's NOT for big brother to tell us "what's good for us"!
Common Sense in Silverton
4:07 pm on Monday, June 25, 2012
Thank you for that logical and well thought out opinion Martin.
Lacey Resident, you should feel terrible that you tried to think for yourself when the government should be doing it for you. Say you're sorry and give me all your fireworks.
Ditzzeechick
10:30 am on Monday, June 25, 2012
Every summer we have neighbors who set off fireworks which we find scary. We all have roofs, decks, boats and canvas covers. Last month my cousins home burned to the ground. A few candle fired lantern/balloons ( you light the candle and like a hot air balloon they lift into the sky and float) were found in one of the neighbors yards where they had landed. They believe that one of them landed on a wooden chair on my cousins deck. They lost their pets but all five people in the house were able to evacuate because their son woke up and began screaming. I also learned that composite decking burns extremely fast compared to the standard treated lumber (maybe one of our local firefighters could speak better to that issue) Anyway, remember when you set something on fire and shoot it into the night sky, though it might be exciting for a couple of seconds, eventually it has to land somewhere so do your friends and neighbors a favor and DON'T, we would appreciate it!
Resident of Lacey
12:47 pm on Monday, July 2, 2012
I am sorry to hear about the losses experienced yet I would not blame the fireworks but the persons which discharged them. Had they been educated and taken the proper precautions I am sure that the event could have been prevented. Regrettably people die in car, boat and household accidents every day; should we also ban them? Should we ban water? Should we ban broken glass or perhaps all glass since you could get hurt with it if it breaks. Go back and read the post, I did not simply say to make them legal; there is a level of responsibility that needs to be adhered to. Even professional fireworks displays come with some level of risk.
jerseyswamps
4:57 am on Tuesday, June 26, 2012
How come some western states ban fireworks during hot dry weather?
Resident of Lacey
12:33 pm on Monday, July 2, 2012
... some western states ban fireworks during hot dry weather due to the elevated risk of wild fires. Something that when New Jersey legalizes fireworks will be more easily enforced, and the steep fines will assist the communities greatly.