Public urged to practice fireworks safety on Lunar New Year
LĪHU‘E – The Kaua‘i Fire Department strongly urges residents to prioritize fireworks safety on Feb. 17, the Lunar New Year.
"We advise everyone to keep safety as the top priority when using fireworks on the Lunar New Year,” said KFD Chief Michael Gibson. “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.”
Additionally, officials 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.
· If a fire develops, call 911 immediately.
Fireworks and firecrackers may only be ignited on private property between 7 a.m. and 7 p.m. on 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 the State of Hawai‘i.
Due to the absence of firecracker vendors for the Lunar New Year, no permits will be issued. Only licensed pyrotechnicians with proper permits are authorized to ignite aerial fireworks.
While no permit is required for the following items, they are still classified as fireworks: snakes, sparklers, fountains, cylindrical or cone fountains, whistles, toy smoke devices, wheels, and ground spinners, and other similar products.
For more information about fire safety, please contact the Fire Prevention Bureau at 808-241-4985 or visit Kauai.gov/fire.
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