Take precautions with
Fourth of July fireworks
People can start buying fireworks for the Fourth of July today.
Fire Capt. Kenison Tejada said they should follow standard safety guidelines when lighting firecrackers on July Fourth.
"All fireworks are dangerous if they are used improperly or in the wrong surroundings," Tejada said.
Fireworks such as the 10,000-, 20,000- and 50,000-firecracker strings require a permit to purchase, but novelty items like sparklers do not.
Fireworks permits are $25 each and are good for up to 5,000 firecrackers per permit.
The Fire Department's safety tips include:
>> Use only approved fireworks from a licensed retail outlet."Generally, mid-summer through early fall is what we consider the drier season and more conducive to brush fires," Fire Capt. Emmit Kane said. "The slight rainfall from this week has helped us out a little, but there are still a few more days until the Fourth of July.">> Follow manufacturer warnings and instructions.
>> Ensure that others are out of range before lighting fireworks.
>> Use a smooth, flat surface away from dry vegetation and flammable materials when lighting fireworks.
>> Have a garden hose or a bucket of water on hand.
>> Children should use fireworks under the direct supervision of an adult.
Fire officials have a backup plan if more manpower is needed on the Fourth of July.
"We will have the same on-duty staff as any other day, but trucks and equipment will be ready to go in case we need back up," Tejada said. Off-duty firefighters will be on call.
Prohibited fireworks activities include:
>> Discharging fireworks before 1 p.m. or after 9 p.m. on the Fourth of July.Pearl Harbor, Schofield Barracks and Marine Corps Base Hawaii at Kaneohe also will have fireworks displays.>> Setting off fireworks near health care or animal care facilities; schools; public streets; parks; sugarcane fields; churches; or hotel.
>> Selling or giving fireworks to minors.
>> Possessing or using aerial fireworks.
People who prefer to watch professional pyrotechnic displays can go to:
>> Aloha Tower on Thursday from 8:15 to 9:15 p.m.
>> Turtle Bay on Thursday from 8:55 to 9:55 p.m.
>> Kailua Beach on Friday at 7:30 and 8:30 p.m.
>> Magic Island on Friday from 8:30 to 9:30 p.m.