Keep pets safe during fireworks

Advertiser Staff

Events involving fireworks are no holiday for frightened pets, including this Independence Day weekend. The Hawaiian Humane Society suggests ways people can protect pets who might be frightened and become lost during loud fireworks displays.

"Fireworks' noise and lights can be scary for animals," said Pamela Burns of the humane society. "Keeping your animals indoors will keep them safe."

Here are some tips:

• Don't take your pet to fireworks displays. Most animals don't enjoy the holiday's noisy spectacles.

• Keep pets indoors in a safe place where there are no breakables in case they become agitated.

• Leave a radio or television on at a normal volume to provide your pet with some companionship while you're away from home.

• Make sure pets are wearing identification in case they escape.

• Animals found running loose should be taken to the humane society's 24-hour animal intake center, where they will have the best chance of being reunited with their owners. Call the humane society at 946-2187, Ext. 285 to report a lost or found pet.

The Honolulu Fire Department reminds residents that firecrackers may be set off only between 1 and 9 p.m. tomorrow.

A permit costing $25, available at satellite city halls, is required for the purchase of up to 5,000 firecrackers. Satellite city halls are open today from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. at Ala Moana Center, Pearlridge Center, Windward Mall and the Hawai'i Kai Corporate Plaza.

Parking restrictions will be in effect at Ala Moana Beach Park. No parking will be allowed between the two concession stands from 10 p.m. today to 4 a.m. tomorrow. Parking in the areas outside the tow zone will be limited to one hour from 2 to 6 a.m. The Magic Island parking lot will open at 5 a.m.

For a list of fireworks displays today and tomorrow, see Saturday Scoops in today's Island Life section.