New Year's fireworks go on sale starting Friday
By Curtis Lum
Advertiser Staff Writer
The sale of fireworks doesn't begin until Friday, but the Honolulu Fire Department is advising those who plan to set off fireworks on New Year's Eve to get their permits early to avoid a last-minute rush.
Advertiser library photo • Dec. 30, 2002
Last year, many O'ahu residents waited until Dec. 30 and New Year's Eve to buy the $25 permit needed to purchase fireworks. The late crunch resulted in long lines at satellite city halls and exhausted dwindling supplies at stores, leaving many without fireworks.
Last year many people put off getting fireworks permits until Dec. 30, which led to long lines at satellite city halls. A permit allows a person to buy a maximum of 5,000 pieces of firecrackers.
The permits allow a person to buy a maximum of 5,000 pieces of firecrackers, although there is no limit on the number of permits a person may purchase. The permit system was created four years ago because of complaints that noise and smoke from the firecrackers were creating health problems.
Fireworks will go on sale Friday and end at 9 p.m. Dec. 31. Permits are not issued at O'ahu fire stations.
The use of aerial fireworks is prohibited, unless the HFD chief issues a public display permit, the department said. Anyone caught importing aerial fireworks or special fireworks without a license would face a fine of up to $10,000 or up to five years in prison.
HFD offers these fireworks safety tips:
• Use only approved fireworks from licensed retail outlets.
• Always read and follow warnings and instructions.
• Ensure that other people are out of range before lighting fireworks.
• Fireworks should only be lit on smooth, flat surfaces away from buildings, dry vegetation and flammable materials.
• Never set off fireworks in metal or glass containers.
• Have a garden hose or a bucket of water ready in the event of a fire.
• Children should only use fireworks under the direct supervision of an adult. Even sparklers can be dangerous to small children.
• Leave the fireworks to professionals and consider watching a public display
Reach Curtis Lum at 525-8025 or culum@honoluluadvertiser.com.
