Firecracker permit sales drop in Honolulu for New Year’s

Firecracker permit sales are down this year with 3,000 fewer sold compared to last year, the Honolulu Fire Department reported.

This year, 17,676 firecracker permits have been issued — a drop from 20,951 issued last year but more than 17,151 issued in 2016.

Friday was the deadline to purchase firecracker permits, which are required by law on Oahu. HFD said only those who have a valid permit may buy and set off firecrackers on New Year’s Eve. All other fireworks are illegal for consumer use on Oahu.

Police said last week that illegal fireworks — including aerials, booming explosives, sparklers and fountains — were already being set off across the island. Numerous reports of illegal fireworks over the past few weeks have been made.

HFD issued a reminder that it is unlawful to throw ignited firecrackers at a person or an animal, from above the first floor of any building, or at a vehicle. It is also unlawful to ignite firecrackers on public ways, parks, beaches, wildlife preserves, places of worship, on school grounds or within 500 feet of a hotel as well as within 1,000 feet of hospitals and health and elderly care facilities. Setting off firecrackers is also banned within 1,000 feet of facilities that care for animals, including the Honolulu Zoo.

It is illegal to give firecrackers to a minor and illegal for minors to use firecrackers on Oahu, even with adult supervision.

The fire department offered the following safety tips:

>> Use only approved firecrackers from a licensed retail outlet that posts its retail license.

>> Always read and follow warnings and instructions listed by the manufacturer.

>> Never point or throw firecrackers at a person, building or animal.

>> Never ignite firecrackers indoors.

>> Ensure your outdoor area is safe for firecracker use.

>> Firecrackers should only be lit on a smooth, flat surface away from buildings, dry vegetation and flammable materials.

>> Do not string firecrackers on utility poles.

>> Keep ladders, poles, or tie lines that are used to set up firecrackers at least 10 feet away from power lines.

>> Never ignite firecrackers in metal or glass containers.

>> Have a garden hose or a bucket of water ready in the event of a fire.

>> Firecrackers must not be used by persons under the influence of drugs or alcohol.

>> Always wear eye protection when lighting firecrackers.

>> When lighting firecrackers, never position any part of your body over them.

>> Never attempt to reignite malfunctioning firecrackers.

>> Store firecrackers in a cool, dry place.

>> Never carry firecrackers in your pocket.

>> Never experiment with homemade firecrackers, as they are dangerous and illegal.