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Pitman police warn residents about illegal fireworks, announce stricter enforcement and park schedule
Summary
Pitman Police Chief Dan McAteer warned of rising fireworks-related calls and injuries, said the department will respond more aggressively to illegal fireworks, clarified permitted items, and Mayor Razze outlined Alcyon Park closures and cleanup schedule for July 3–6.
Chief Dan McAteer told the council and public on June 9 that illegal fireworks pose safety risks and that the Pitman Police Department will respond more aggressively to incidents during the July 4th period, including charging offenders when appropriate.
Chief McAteer said permitted items typically include ground displays and hand sparklers but that residents often bring illegal fireworks from out of state; he recounted a prior incident requiring the Camden County Bomb Squad to dismantle live fireworks left on a Summit Avenue field. He said, "Each year there is an increase in calls to the Police not only for distressed residents, but also for dangerous injuries, so the Pitman Police Department intends to respond to these incidents more aggressively and charge offenders accordingly." He also apologized for a Pitman Police Department Facebook post where comments "got out of hand" and emphasized the department's aim to be a neutral, safe space for residents.
Mayor Razze announced Alcyon Park will close at 5:00 p.m. on Thursday, July 3, reopen only for ticketed fireworks spectators on Saturday, July 5, and remain closed for cleanup until sometime between noon and 3:00 p.m. on Sunday, July 6. Walt Madison commented on the large cleanup burden after displays.
