Public urged to practice fireworks safety while celebrating Lunar New Year

Kaua‘i Fire Department strongly urges residents to prioritize fireworks safety Tuesday (Feb. 17) while celebrating Lunar New Year.

“We advise everyone to keep safety as the top priority when using fireworks on the Lunar New Year,” said Kaua‘i Fire Department Chief Michael Gibson in a release from the fire department. “To ensure community safety, always supervise children around fireworks, educate everyone involved about the dangers of improper fireworks use and never light fireworks in your hand or throw them.”

Officials also emphasize the importance of wildfire prevention:

• Use fireworks in a clear, open area away from dry grass, brush and trees.
• Keep a bucket of water, hose or fire extinguisher nearby.
• Do not use fireworks during dry, windy weather.
• Call 9-1-1 immediately if a fire sparks.

Fireworks and firecrackers can only be ignited from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. on private property Feb. 17. Setting off fireworks on public property — such as streets, sidewalks or parks — is illegal.

It is strictly prohibited to remove the powder or pyrotechnic contents from any firework.

The public is also reminded that all aerial luminaries — also known as flying lanterns or flying luminaries — are prohibited in Hawai‘i. Only licensed pyrotechnicians with proper permits are authorized to ignite aerial fireworks.

No permits will be issued because of the absence of firecracker vendors for Lunar New Year.

While still classified as fireworks, there is no permit required for the following items:

• Snakes.
• Sparklers.
• Fountains.
• Cylindrical or cone fountains.
• Whistles.
• Toy smoke devices.
• Wheels.
• Ground spinners.
• Other similar products.

Contact Kaua‘i Fire Department Fire Prevention Bureau at 808-241-4985 or visit the Kaua‘i Fire Department website for additional information or with any questions.