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POSTED: Wednesday, December 31, 2008

Expect rain and light tradewinds tonight, which should reduce the amount of smoke from New Year's Eve fireworks, the National Weather Service predicts. Its forecast calls for heavier than normal tradewind showers and light winds from the east at 15 mph.

 

  “;It might not be best for fireworks viewing, but there should be breaks in the clouds,”; said forecaster Norman Hui.

The American Lung Association of Hawaii is urging island residents who suffer from lung disease to avoid fireworks pollution as much as possible. Jean Evans, the group's executive director, says those with breathing difficulties should remain indoors and close their windows and doors, avoid physical exertion and get plenty of rest.

According to the association, an estimated 154,000 island residents suffer from some form of impaired lung function.

Fireworks sales appeared steady at Don Quijote yesterday, although sales of firecracker permits are running 36 percent below last year.

As of Monday, the latest figures available, 5,208 permits were sold in Honolulu compared with 8,335 at the same time last year.

The $25 permits allow holders to buy and use traditional firecrackers on New Year's Eve.

Permit sales have been decreasing over the last few years as the popularity of paperless firecrackers, which do not require a permit, has increased.

Fire Department spokesman Capt. Terry Seelig said importers have been bringing in fewer firecrackers and more of the novelties, which include sparklers, fountains and the paperless firecrackers.

Meanwhile, Honolulu police said yesterday they busted an illegal fireworks sales operation near the airport.

Police said they arrested two men, ages 33 and 32, after an undercover officer purchased $1,400 worth of aerial fireworks from 2676 Waiwai Loop.

More than $40,000 worth of aerial fireworks was recovered at the scene.

The Associated Press contributed to this report.

 

Fireworks shows

Scheduled Oahu public fireworks displays tonight, New Year's Eve:

» 7 p.m., Hawaiian Waters Adventure Park, 91-400 Farrington Highway in Kapolei

» Midnight, Ihilani Resort & Spa, 92-1001 Olani St. in Ko Olina

» Midnight, offshore near the Halekulani Hotel, 2199 Kalia Road in Waikiki

>> Midnight, Aloha Tower Marketplace

Source: Honolulu Fire Department

 

Fire Safety tips

» Always read and follow all warnings and instructions listed by the manufacturer.

» Use only approved fireworks from a licensed retail outlet that posts its retail license.

» Never point or throw fireworks at a person, building or animal.

» Never ignite fireworks indoors.

» Light fireworks on smooth, flat surfaces away from homes, dry leaves and flammable materials.

» Never set off fireworks in metal or glass containers.

» Have a garden hose or a bucket of water ready in case of a fire.

» Adults should always supervise the use of fireworks, even sparklers, by children.

» Alcohol and fireworks do not mix.

» Wear eye protection when lighting fireworks.

» Never relight malfunctioning fireworks.

» Store fireworks in a cool, dry place.

» Never carry fireworks in your pocket.

» Never experiment with homemade fireworks.

» Use fireworks in an area clear of overhead power lines and do not string fireworks on utility poles.

Source: Honolulu Fire Department and Hawaiian Electric Co.

 

Fireworks Law

Fireworks can be set off legally from 9 tonight until 1 a.m. tomorrow. It is unlawful to:

» Remove pyrotechnic contents from fireworks.

» Throw any ignited fireworks from a moving vehicle.

» Set off fireworks in the vicinity of health care facilities and facilities for animals.

» Set off fireworks by a school.

» Set off fireworks on public ways, or in parks, cane fields or places of worship.

» Set off, ignite, discharge or otherwise cause to explode any fireworks within 500 feet of any hotel without a permit.

» Offer for sale, sell or give any fireworks to minors. Minors may use fireworks under the immediate supervision and control of an adult.

» Possess or use aerial fireworks without a permit.

Source: Honolulu Fire Department

 

Protect your pets

Animals are also affected by fireworks. The Hawaiian Humane Society offers these tips for protecting pets on New Year's Eve:

» Ensure your pets have identification.

» Don't take your pet to firework displays.

» Keep animals indoors in a safe place.

» Don't leave your pet in a car.

» Call your veterinarian for tips or medication if your pet is seriously distressed by loud noises.