LIHUE — As the New Year festivities continue tonight and through midnight, law enforcement officials are urging the public to celebrate safely and responsibly.
The Kauai Police Department KPD has provided a list of safety tips to help ensure everyone enjoys a festive and secure holiday.
Beginning with— Fireworks safety:
Fireworks may only be ignited on private property between 9 p.m. on Tuesday, Dec. 31, and on Wednesday, Jan. 1 at 1 a.m.
Setting off fireworks or firecrackers on public property — including streets, sidewalks, or parks — is illegal and can lead to heavy fines.
Children should always be supervised when using fireworks by an adult. Fireworks should be lit on a flat, stable surface, away from buildings, dry vegetation, and flammable materials.
Followed by— Staying safe on the roads and pet safety:
If celebrating with an alcoholic beverage, ensure you have a designated driver or use a rideshare service to get home safely.
Obey speed limits, avoid distractions, and be patient with other drivers on the road.
If you see a driver behaving recklessly or impaired, report it to the police immediately.
Your call can help keep everyone safe, including your pets.
Keep pets indoors and provide a quiet, safe place for your pets where they can retreat if they feel anxious or scared.
Fireworks, music, and loud noises can overwhelm pets especially those with anxiety issues or sensitive hearing. Ask guests to be mindful when entering and exiting your home to prevent accidental escapes. Also, ensure your pet is microchipped and that they always wear a collar with up-to-date, legible identification tags.
Lastly— Stay alert and report any suspicious activity:
KPD will be doubling patrol efforts throughout the evening to enhance enforcement and ensure public safety. We encourage everyone to report any suspicious activity or illegal behavior.
Kauai law enforcement is here to help keep the community safe but is also relying on its residents to ensure a safe and enjoyable New Year for all. Stay safe, be responsible, and have a Happy New Year!
If you witness unsafe or unlawful actions, please call the non-emergency line at 808- 241-1711 and provide clear, accurate details. If the situation is an emergency, call 911.
Always remember, that 911 is strictly for emergencies—using it for non-emergencies can delay response times for those in urgent need.
If your pet has gone missing or has escaped visit, the Kauai Humane Society website at Kauaihumane.org and fill out a missing pet form or call at 808-632-0610 for further information.
