Experts warn to leave fireworks to the pros this 4th of July
The message from experts this Fourth of July? Leave the fireworks to the professionals.
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Officials across the tri-state are warning the public about the dangers of illegal fireworks ahead of the Fourth of July.
They say the consequences can go far beyond just a trip to the emergency room.
News 12 recently sat down with Brooklyn District Attorney Eric Gonzalez to discuss a case involving fireworks, which is still pending, as well as the city’s aggressive crackdown on illegal fireworks as the tri-state prepares to mark America’s 250th.
A tip to the FDNY led to a massive bust last year at a Brooklyn warehouse, just days before the Fourth of July.
Fire marshals seized more than 1,000 boxes of fireworks - worth roughly $250,000 - and arrested the manager of the illegal operation, who Gonzalez says is facing a felony charge.
There was also a fireworks incident involving two boys who were just 11 and 13 last summer in Borough Park.
"Every year, we see people who lose fingers or severely hurt," says Gonzalez. "We do joint investigations trying to get illegal fireworks coming in from our neighboring states, like Pennsylvania."
Attorney Brandon Finz says even sparklers, which are often given to young children, burn to about 2,000 degrees.
The NYPD says fireworks cause nearly 20,000 fires and 10,000 injuries every year. Because of those dangers, local officials enforce strict bans across the region:
New York City: All consumer fireworks, including sparklers, are completely illegal.
New York State (outside NYC): Only certain sparkling devices are permitted.
New Jersey & Connecticut: Both states restrict many types of fireworks, including aerial devices.
Finz, who has offices on Long Island, Brooklyn and Manhattan, warns that the ultimate downside to backyard fireworks may be financial.
He says damages from a lawsuit could range into the seven figures, leaving a homeowner personally liable.
"People may think, 'Well, my homeowners insurance may step in to protect me.' However, that's a grave mistake by homeowners because often times, your homeowner's policy will not protect you from civil liability," he says. "If someone is seriously hurt at your home, you could be personally sued."
For more safety tips, click here.
