A state law that went into effect two years ago, overriding county ordinances, banned all aerial fireworks while permiting unlimited use of other firecrackers. The law is too permissive, but legislators seem unwilling to make it tougher. The seizure of a shipment of illegal fireworks in Hilo is an indication that even the current law is being violated. The law allows fireworks only from 9 tonight to 1 a.m. New Year's Day. If you insist on setting off fireworks, please respect those restrictions.
Fireworks are a major fire hazard.
Their smoke pollutes the air and their noise is a nuisance and a real problem for many pet owners. As Hawaiian Electric warns, stringing fireworks from utility poles can be a fatal mistake. Last year a Waipahu man suffered serious injuries while attempting to hang firecrackers on a rope he had draped over a power line. Instead of setting off fireworks yourself, go to one of the public fireworks displays. They are safer and more spectacular.