As the New Year approaches, Hawaii prepares for its traditional celebrations, which prominently feature firecrackers and fireworks. However, with the festivities comes the necessity of adhering to regulations and safety measures to ensure a safe and joyous celebration.
Permits and Purchasing Locations
Each county in Hawaii has its own regulations and processes for obtaining firecracker permits. In Oahu, applications for firecracker permits closed on December 21, and the permits must be picked up at designated Satellite City Hall locations. For Maui County, firecracker permits are available at select firework sales locations, including King’s Cathedral at the Walmart parking lot in Kahului, Pacific Starr Fireworks in Kihei, and several other locations across Maui, Lanai, and Molokai. Kauai residents can apply for permits online through December 31, or until vendors run out of inventory. Hawaii Island offers firework permits at various vendor locations, including KTA stores in Hilo, Kona, and Waimea, and Pacific Fireworks in Kailua Kona.
Regulations and Restrictions
Firecracker permits in Hawaii cost $25 each and allow the holder to purchase up to 5,000 individual firecrackers. Applicants must be 18 years or older. The firecrackers can only be ignited from 9 p.m. on New Year’s Eve to 1 a.m. on New Year’s Day, and permits must be visibly displayed when firing. Aerial fireworks, including flying lanterns, are illegal unless ignited by licensed pyro-technicians with proper permits. Novelties and consumer fireworks like sparklers, snakes, and cone fountains that release no higher than 12 feet off the ground do not require permits.
Safety Measures and Concerns
Officials urge extreme caution when using fireworks. Tips for safety include supervising children, avoiding use near dry grass or flammable materials, lighting fireworks one at a time, avoiding use while impaired, and ensuring fireworks are completely extinguished before disposal. Protective eyewear is recommended to prevent eye injuries. In case of injury, immediate medical attention should be sought by calling 911.
Emphasis on Legal Fireworks and Wildfire Risks
Honolulu Mayor Rick Blangiardi and other officials have emphasized the importance of using only legal, permitted firecrackers. The risk of wildfires is a major concern, especially following recent wildfires in Maui and above Mililani Mauka. In 2022, the Honolulu Fire Department responded to a significant increase in fireworks-related fire calls compared to the previous year. There were also major fireworks-related injuries reported, including cases of burns and other serious harm. An islandwide partial fireworks ban in Oahu since 2011 prohibits the use of fountains, sparklers, aerial fireworks, and other consumer fireworks without a permit.
Conclusion
The celebration of New Year’s Eve in Hawaii with firecrackers is a cherished tradition, but it requires careful adherence to safety measures and regulations. Residents are reminded to purchase permits where required, use fireworks responsibly, and consider the risks of wildfires and personal injuries. By following these guidelines, the people of Hawaii can ensure a safe and festive ringing in of the New Year.