Officials Give Firework Safety Tips Before 4th of July Holiday

SAUGERTIES, N.Y. — David Rothe is an independent contractor for TNT Fireworks on route 32 in Saugerties. He said he’s been really busy helping customers looking to buy fireworks.

“People have a lot of good family stories, July Fourth is always a good time for families to get together and join together and have some fun and fireworks are a big part of that,” said Rothe.

People in numerous counties across the state including Ulster can buy fireworks until July 5th.

However, Rothe said while they bring back positive memories for many, he’s also heard stories of people who hurt themselves, and wants everyone who buys them to stay safe.

“We’ve been giving away these punks, there like incense sticks so you get a little distance when you’re lighting the fireworks so you’re not going to burn yourself,” he said.

Ground fireworks like the ones sold in this tent on Route 32 are legal, but ones that launch into the air are not.

Saugerties Police Chief Joseph Sinagra said using illegal fireworks may be a misdemeanor charge, but if someone is hurt or property is damaged it can be much worse.

“Depending on what mishap occurs, individuals can be charged with felonies, it could be reckless endangerment felony, it can be endangering the welfare of children at the felony level, endangering property, damaging property,” said Sinagra.

Officials said there are a number of safety precautions that should be taken with legal fireworks because they too can be dangerous.

“There should be adult supervision. Little children should never be left alone with sparklers and ground mounted items such as the volcanoes and the snakes,” FASNY secretary John D’Alessandro said.

“Have a water source readily accessible; to have a garden hose,” said Sinagra. “So don’t do it too far away that you can’t get water to where you are igniting them.”

“Have good judgment don’t do anything silly,” said Rothe.

The firework show in Saugerties will be held at the Cantine Veterans Memorial Complex on July 4th at dusk.