Maui Fireworks Displays in Wailea, Mānele
Maui fireworks. File photo by Wendy Osher.
By Wendy Osher
Maui fire officials are encouraging the public to stay safe during their New Year’s celebrations.
The department’s Fire Prevention bureau released a list of general prohibitions and safety tips for fireworks use; but advised that “the best way to stay safe is not to use fireworks at all.”
The department urged the public to consider leaving fireworks to the professionals, which include two public fireworks displays at midnight: one in Kīhei at a barge offshore of the Grand Wailea Resort, and the other at the Mānele Bay Hotel on Lānaʻi.
The public is reminded that fireworks and firecrackers can only be legally set off during a four-hour window between 9 p.m. on New Year’s Eve and 1 a.m. on New Year’s Day.
Violators are subject to fines of up to $2,000. Also, department officials say the import, transfer, sale or use of aerial fireworks without a valid permit is considered a Class C Felony.
- remove or extract pyrotechnic contents.
- throw any ignited fireworks from a moving vehicle.
- set off fireworks: within 1,000-feet of health care facilities and facilities for animals; by schools; on public roads, at County parks or facilities, in cane fields, or places of worship.
- for any person without a permit to set off, ignite, discharge or otherwise cause to explode any fireworks within 500-feet from any hotel.
- for any person to offer for sale, sell or give any fireworks to minors, and for any minors to possess, purchase, or set off, ignite or otherwise cause to explode any fireworks, except that the parents or guardians may allow the minor to use fireworks while under the immediate supervision and control of an adult.
- 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, and readily ignitable materials.
- Have a water hose or bucket of water readily available in case of a fire.
Fireworks permits cost $25 each and are good for the purchase of up to 5,000 firecrackers. Novelty fireworks such as sparklers, snakes, fountains and cylindrical or cone fountains which emit effects not higher than 12 feet off the ground do not require permits.
“The use of fireworks to celebrate the start of a new year is a privilege that Maui residents continue to enjoy,” said Maui Fire Captain Paul Haʻake.
According to Capt. Haʻake, the activity increases community risk of fire and fire-related injuries.
“To make sure our community can continue celebrating the start of the new year with fireworks and avoid the risks associated with its use, please remember to do the following: supervise children using fireworks, follow the manufacturer’s instructions and safety tips provided, use common sense, and watch out for each others’ safety.”
“Hopefully we can all have a safe and enjoyable New Year’s celebration and continue to celebrate the start of every new year with fireworks,” he said.
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