Spending New Year’s Eve in Hawaii is pretty special, not only because you get to ring in 2016 in paradise, but also because we are BANANAS about our fireworks! Even though the Honolulu City Council banned most personal fireworks in 2012, you’ll still see lots of revelers setting off all sorts of firecrackers. Then, of course, there are the big pyrotechnic displays you’ll find around the state. On Oahu, you’ll find fireworks shows:
- Off a barge fronting 4559 Kahala Avenue at 10:30 p.m.
- Off a barge offshore of Waikiki at 12 a.m.
- At the Ko Olina resort at 12 a.m.
- At 1101-1367 Sand Island Parkway at 12 a.m.
- Kahala Hotel at 11:59 p.m.
On Maui:
- Kihei: Offshore barge fronting Grand Wailea Hotel
Big Island:
- Mauna Lani Bay Hotel and Bungalows, Kohala Coast
Kauai:
- Poipu: Poipu Beach Park, 5:30-10:30 p.m., with fireworks between 9-10 p.m.
Naturally, attending one of these large displays is the safest way to safely enjoy fireworks. But, if you have your own, make sure you heed these warnings, courtesy of the Hawaiian Electric Company:
- Set up fireworks in a safe location away from flammable items. Make sure the area is clear of overhead power lines, and don’t hang fireworks on utility poles.
- Because overhead power lines are energized and are not insulated, it’s important to stay away from them. Don’t use metal ladders or poles to string fireworks near overhead power lines. Keep yourself and your ladder, pole and tie lines at least 10 feet from power lines.
- If an object should become entangled in an overhead power line, don’t try to free it. To have the object safely removed, call Hawaiian Electric’s 24-hour trouble line, toll-free, at 1-855-304-1212. In an emergency situation, call 911.
Here are more safety tips from the Honolulu Fire Department:
- Use only approved fireworks from a licensed retail outlet that posts its retail license.
- Always read and follow the warnings and instructions listed by the manufacturer to ensure the safe handling and use of fireworks.
- Never point or throw fireworks at a person, building, or animal.
- Never ignite fireworks indoors. Ensure your outdoor area is safe for fireworks use.
- Fireworks should only be lighted on a smooth, flat surface away from buildings, dry vegetation, and flammable materials.
- Never ignite fireworks in metal or glass containers.
- Have a garden hose or a bucket of water available in the event of a fire.
- Fireworks must not be used by persons under the influence of drugs or alcohol.
- Always wear eye protection when lighting fireworks.
- When igniting fireworks, never position any part of your body over them.
- Never attempt to reignite malfunctioning fireworks.
- Store fireworks in a cool, dry place.
- Never carry fireworks in your pocket.
- Never experiment with homemade fireworks, as they are dangerous and illegal.
Many of these recommendations are common sense, but every year, many folks still get injured from rogue fireworks in Hawaii. So, keep these recommendations in mind this New Year’s Eve — and transition into 2016 safely!
