The Honolulu Fire Department reminds the public that the city’s fireworks law allows for the purchase and use of firecrackers only, with required permits. All other fireworks are illegal for consumer use on Oahu.
“We hope that people will respect the fireworks ordinance and understand the dangers associated with firecracker use,” fire Chief Manuel P. Neves said in a news release. “While the number of fireworks-related injuries on Oahu is typically lower than elsewhere in the nation, even a single incident is one too many because it causes suffering, which is preventable. If people take the necessary precautions and obey the rules, we will truly have a happy New Year’s Eve.”
A permit, available until Thursday, is required to purchase firecrackers on Oahu. But having a permit does not guarantee the availability of firecrackers for purchase at wholesalers and retailers, with sales beginning Tuesday and ending at midnight Dec. 31.
Also, firecrackers on Oahu may be ignited or discharged only between 9 p.m. Dec. 31 and 1 a.m. Jan. 1.
Firecrackers must be purchased from licensed retailers no earlier than five days prior to use. Each licensed retailer may sell no more than 5,000 individual firecrackers per permit. This year 62 retail licenses were issued, compared with 61 last year and 92 in 2015.
“The safest way to enjoy fireworks is to attend one of the public displays conducted by licensed professionals,” Neves said. “If you use firecrackers, please follow these safety tips, obey the rules and be considerate of your neighbors.”
HFD provided 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 to ensure the safe handling and use of firecrackers.
>> Never point or throw firecrackers at a person, building or animal.
>> Never ignite firecrackers indoors.
>> Never ignite firecrackers in metal or glass containers.
>> Firecrackers should be lit only 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.
>> Have a garden hose or bucket of water ready in the event of a fire.
>> Firecrackers must not be used by people 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.
