Big Island Police Remind Residents About Fireworks Rules, Offer Safety Tips

In an effort to make sure everyone has a safe and enjoyable Fourth of July weekend, Big Island police are reminding the public about the rules governing the use of fireworks.

According to state law, anyone purchasing, possessing, storing, setting off, igniting or discharging aerial devices, display fireworks or other pyrotechnics without a valid permit could face felony charges.

“Please remember that anyone igniting aerial pyrotechnic displays risks not only their life but also the lives of loved ones nearby and potentially neighbors as well,” a media release from the Hawai‘i Police Department said.

Prohibited fireworks include:

• Jumping jacks.
• Flying pigs.
• Rockets.
• Helicopters.
• Satellites.
• Roman candles.
• Mines.
• Shells.
• Aerial luminary devices, also known as Sky Lanterns.

Hawai‘i Police Department reminds residents that it’s illegal to:

• Extract the explosive or pyrotechnic contents from any fireworks.
• Throw ignited fireworks at, into or from a moving vehicle.
• Have anyone younger than 18 purchase, possess or ignite any fireworks unless they are under the immediate supervision and control of their parents or an authorized adult.

It’s also illegal to set off fireworks:

• At any time outside the specified time period on the Fourth of July.
• In any school building or on any school grounds without authorization from school officials.
• Within 1,000 feet of any hospital, convalescent home, care home for the elderly, church where services are conducted, zoo, animal hospital or shelter.

The use of fireworks is only permitted from 1-9 p.m. Monday, July 4. Residents who want to set off fireworks must pay a permit fee of $25, available from the Hawai‘i Fire Department, which allows an adult to purchase up to 5,000 individual firecrackers.

Common fireworks allowed without a permit include:

• Cylindrical fountains.
• Cone fountains.
• Wheels.
• Illuminating torches and colored fire.
• Dipped sticks.
• Sparklers.
• Salutes.

The Hawai‘i Police Department asks the public to kokua by following fireworks rules to reduce the risk of injury to people and pets. Police officers will be enforcing the fireworks law and looking for violators.

Violators are subject to a fine of up to $500.

County Animal Control Services offers the following tips for pet owners regarding July 4th fireworks:

• Keep your pet secured inside. Pets tied up outside can panic because of the loud noise and might break their tie-out or jump over a fence to escape the noise.
• Make sure your pet is microchipped and owner information is updated to help increase the chances of reunification. Click here to register your pet’s microchip.
• Thunder shirts, favorite treats and crating are all ways to help keep your pet calm. Check with your veterinarian about anxiety medications for your dog.
• Check your yard for fireworks debris before allowing pets to explore the area.