Fireworks Info for 4th of July on Maui

Maui fireworks, file photo by Wendy Osher.

By Wendy Osher

A single public fireworks display is planned this year on Maui.

The event, presented by the Maui Chamber of Commerce, is scheduled to take place at 8 p.m. on July 4 from a barge offshore of Front Street in Lahaina.

Fire officials on Maui are encouraging the public to celebrate safely saying, “the best way to stay safe is not to use fireworks at all,” and to leave fireworks to the professionals.

The sale of fireworks in Maui County begins this Saturday, June 29, 2013 and end on Thursday, July 4, 2013.

“At this time none of the local retailers are selling any fire crackers in the County of Maui, therefore no firecracker permits will be issued,” personnel from the Maui Department of Fire and Public Safety announced today.

Fireworks permits are not be required for consumer fireworks such as sparklers, snakes, and cylindrical or cone fountains which emit effects less than 12-feet off the ground.

Officials with the county Department of Fire and Public Safety issued the following rules and regulations, as well as a list of safety tips in anticipation of the 4th of July holiday:

Fireworks Rules:

• Fireworks can only be legally set off from 1 p.m. to 9 p.m. on the 4th of July.
• Setting off fireworks outside designated times is punishable by law, with violations subject to fines of up to $2,000.
• Aerial fireworks are illegal.  Authorities advise that they are extremely dangerous. Importing and selling aerial fireworks without a permit is considered a Class C Felony.

General Prohibitions (i.e. It is unlawful to do the following):

• Remove or extract pyrotechnic contents;
• Throw any ignited fireworks from a moving vehicle;
• Set off fireworks within 1000 feet of health care facilities and facilities for animals; by schools; and on public roads, in county parks, at county facilities, cane fields, or places of worship.
• It is unlawful for any person without a permit to set off, ignite, discharge or otherwise cause to explode any fireworks within 500 feet from any hotel; and
• For any person to offer for sale, sell or give any fireworks to minors, and for any minors to possess, purchase, set off, ignite or otherwise cause to explode any fireworks, except that which parents or guardians may allow the minor to use while under the immediate supervision and control of an adult.

Safety Tips Regarding Fireworks Use:

• Fireworks can be dangerous, causing serious burns and eye injuries.
• Young children and fireworks do not mix. Never give fireworks, even sparklers, to young children. Sparklers burn at temperatures of 2,000 degrees Fahrenheit.
• Older children should only use fireworks under the direct supervision of an adult.
• Always read and follow all warnings and instructions listed by the manufacturer for the safe use and handling of fireworks.
• Make sure you have a clear, flat area to use the fireworks; away from structures, dry grass or brush, or other readily ignitable materials.
• Have a water hose or bucket of water readily available in case of a fire.