HFD: Fireworks Schedules, Permits, and Safety Tips

With fireworks sales set to begin on June 29 and public Fourth of July firework schedules released, Hawai’i County Fire Department Chief Darren Rosario is reminding the public of illegal behaviors and safety tips.

On the Big Island, fireworks for those who have a valid permit, are only allowed to be set off between 1 p.m. and 9 p.m. on July 4.

Public fireworks displays will take place at the following locations:

• Hilo Bay, 8 p.m.
• Ali’i Drive in Kailua-Kona, 8 p.m.
• Queens’ MarketPlace in Waikoloa, 8 p.m.

Fire Chief Rosario is reminding the public of the following illegal fireworks behaviors:

• Removing the powder or pyrotechnic contents from any fireworks
• Throwing fireworks from a vehicle
• Set off any fireworks:
  • At any time not within the time period allowed
  • Within 1,000 feet of any operating hospital, nursing home, home of the elderly, or animal hospital.
  • In or on any school building or property
  • On any highway, alley, street, sidewalk, or other public way, in any park, or within 1,000 feet of a church during the periods when services are held.
• Sell or give any fireworks to minors, and for any minor to possess, set off, ignite, or otherwise cause to explode any fireworks, except under immediate supervision of an adult.

In addition, HFD asks that the public do their part in preventing fires and injuries caused by fireworks by doing the following:

• Have a water hose connected to a water source or a fire extinguisher readily available. Wet down surrounding bushes prior to setting off fireworks, if necessary.
• Supervise children playing with fireworks at all times
• Fireworks should be set off in a safe area away from dry grass, buildings, vehicles, and flammable materials.
• Dispose of used fireworks properly by soaking in water prior to disposal.

HFD will conduct an unused and unwanted fireworks collection on July 10. Those interested in disposing of fireworks, learning more about firework permits, or safety tips should call the Fire Prevention Bureau at 932-2912.