HONOLULU (KHON2) — From red firecrackers, illegal aerials and professional shows, the New Year will be filled with fireworks in Hawaii. A message from officials is clear– ‘Leave it to the professionals.’
Hawaii will bring in the new year with multiple fireworks shows across the state.
“We start months in advance with the planning of the layout of the show, selecting the right types of fireworks, coordinating all of the safety measures that need to go in place,” stated Stephanie Pascual, Hawaii Explosives & Pyrotechnics (HiPyro) Vice President.
Those near Kapolei can watch the New Year’s Eve celebration offshore of Ko Olina Resort. A Waikiki New Year’s Eve celebration will take place offshore of Waikiki and a Wai Kai New Year’s Eve Experience will set off fireworks on Ewa Beach.
HiPyro recommends planning ahead to find a good viewing spot.
“We’re hoping that everyone recognizes that safety boundary and keeping that that safe distance, that safe perimeter,” said Pascual. “There’ll be people there to help with crowd control and explain to everybody the reasons why we have the safety barrier.”
Law enforcement officials said to leave the fireworks to the professionals, but illegal aerials continue being reported across Oahu.
The Hawaii Department of Transportation (HDOT) reminds drivers not to stop on the freeway to watch fireworks saying it is dangerous and illegal.
For those popping firecrackers at home with a permit, the Honolulu Fire Department (HFD) said to keep a few safety tips in mind.
“Clean up your carports and garages if you have any dirty rags or oil cans,” stated HFD Fire Inspector, Carl Otsuka. “Keep it really clear, really clean from debris because we’ve had fireworks fly into other people’s garages and start house fires.”
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HFD also stated it’s best to keep keiki away.
“Glow sticks, you got those party poppers,” said Otsuka. “Safer alternatives for kids.”