In a striking public safety demonstration ahead of Independence Day, Nassau County officials showcased the dangers of illegal fireworks through a series of controlled explosions. The event, held at Eisenhower Park in East Meadow, featured the detonation of a car, a mailbox, and a rotisserie chicken, vividly illustrating the potential harm these explosives can cause.
The demonstration aimed to educate residents on the risks associated with illegal fireworks, particularly those purchased legally in neighboring states like Pennsylvania but deemed illegal and hazardous in New York. Officials emphasized that such fireworks can ignite from mere friction, posing significant dangers when transported or used improperly.
Lieutenant Ken Strigaro of the Nassau County Bomb Squad, who oversaw the demonstration, likened consumer fireworks to bombs, stressing that they should only be handled by professionals in controlled settings. “These are not toys,” Strigaro stated. “They are explosives that can cause serious injuries or even fatalities.”
One of the most impactful moments of the demonstration was the explosion of a rotisserie chicken, intended to simulate the devastating effects fireworks can have on the human body. “This is what happens when a firework goes off in your hand,” Strigaro explained, highlighting the severity of potential injuries.
Deputy Fire Commissioner Kevin Smith reported that over the past five years, Nassau County has experienced 20 home fires linked to mishandled fireworks, with five incidents occurring in the last year alone. Smith warned about the dangers of sparklers, which can reach temperatures of up to 3,000 degrees Fahrenheit, urging parents not to allow children to handle them. “You wouldn’t put a welding rod in your child’s hands—why would you put these?” he questioned.
County Executive Bruce Blakeman reinforced the message, stating, “Every year we hear about people losing their eye, or losing a finger—it’s not worth it. We will arrest you.” He urged residents to attend professional fireworks displays instead of using illegal fireworks, emphasizing the legal and safety risks involved.
The demonstration also included the ignition of a mailbox, a popular prank among teens, to show the level of damage that can result from dropping a “mortar” inside. Officials used these vivid examples to underscore the potential consequences of seemingly harmless activities.
In addition to local efforts, federal agencies like the U.S. Border Control and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) have issued warnings regarding the use and purchase of fireworks. Consumers are strongly urged to ensure that fireworks are legally imported and compliant with federal regulations, including customs, safety standards, and hazardous materials guidelines. The ATF warns against purchasing illegal explosives, which can be mislabeled and pose serious safety risks, including unintentional explosions due to heat or impact.
As Independence Day approaches, Nassau County officials continue to advocate for public safety, urging residents to celebrate responsibly by attending professional fireworks displays and refraining from using illegal fireworks. The dramatic demonstration serves as a stark reminder of the potential dangers and legal consequences associated with these explosives.
