LIHUE — Eryka Kleinfeld of Pacific Fireworks said the shop brought in a greater amount of firecrackers this year.
“We had to bring in more,” Kleinfeld said. “After we ran out last year, we decided to increase the number of firecrackers we have. There is a firecracker shortage out there. There was a firecracker shortage, last year, and it’s still short.”
Pacific Fireworks opened its doors, Wednesday morning, the first day fireworks sales were permitted. She will remain open through New Year’s Eve, or when supplies run out.
Jay Gonzalez and Tony Cayabyab were among the early shoppers, enjoying the greatest variety of pyrotechnics for their New Year’s celebration.
“We have all the permits,” Gonzalez said. “We got them, early. Now, I just need to get some overtime to help pay for all of this.”
Fireworks and firecrackers may only be ignited on private property between 9 p.m., Dec. 31 through 1 a.m., Jan. 1.
Kauai Fire Officials are reminding the public to purchase their permits now, to ensure that a permit can be issued in time for their New Year’s Eve celebrations.
“Permits are available from the Kauai Fire Dept. headquarters until 4 p.m., Dec. 31,” Kleinfeld said. “We follow the law, and you must have the permits to purchase firecrackers.”
The cost of a fireworks permit is $25, and applicants must be at least 18 years old.
Only licensed pyro-technicians with proper permits are authorized to ignite aerial fireworks, the fire officials said.
Although the following items are classified as fireworks, no permit is required to purchase them. These include snakes, sparklers, fountains, cylindrical or cone fountains, whistles, toy smoke devices, wheels, ground spinners and other similar products.
The Kauai Fire Dept. reminds the public that it is illegal to set off fireworks on public property, including streets, sidewalks, or parks. Removing the powder or pyrotechnic contents from any fireworks is prohibited.
The public is also advised that all aerial luminaries, known as Flying Lanterns, or flying luminaries, are prohibited in the State of Hawaii under HRS 132-19.
Capt. Daryl Date with the Fire Prevention Bureau advises everyone to exercise caution when igniting fireworks, follow listed instructions, and be sure that children are under adult supervision at all times.
For more information, contact the Fire Prevention Bureau at 241-4985.
•••
Dennis Fujimoto, staff writer and photographer, can be reached at 245-0453 or dfujimoto@thegardenisland.com.
