MARINE CORPS BASE HAWAII -- America’s Independence Day is annually celebrated July 4. For many Americans, it’s a holiday and an opportunity for family get-togethers, barbecues and firework displays.
Marine Corps Base Hawaii residents should be aware that base regulations prohibit fireworks and pyrotechnics.
Possession or discharge of fireworks and pyrotechnics of all types is prohibited aboard the base, regardless of size or configuration, including government-issued items except as part of officially-sanctioned training, operations or special events.
Fireworks include toy cannons, firecrackers, torpedoes, skyrockets, Roman candles, sparklers or similar items capable of producing a visual or audible effect by combustion or detonation.
For those planning their Fourth of July celebrations off base, there are rules and safety issues that should be taken into consideration before striking a match. As of Jan. 2, 2011, a partial fireworks ban was put in place for the entire island of Oahu.
A $25 fireworks permit is available at Satellite City Halls. At any time other than the designated holidays, a fireworks permit may be obtained from the Honolulu Fire Department at 636 South St. in Honolulu. Permits will not be issued at any fire station, according to the City and County of Honolulu website.
This permit allows residents 18 years of age and older to set off up to 5,000 firecrackers (the permit must be displayed where firecrackers are used) and a combination of up to 160 permitted sparklers or fountains. Possession and use of non-permitted fountains, sparklers, aerial fireworks and other consumer fireworks are illegal.
The Hawaii Fire Department asks everyone to do their part to prevent fires and injuries caused by fireworks:
a. Purchase fireworks from a legitimately-licensed vendor.
b. Supervise children playing with fireworks at all times. Even the smallest of fireworks can cause serious and sometimes fatal injuries.
c. Set off fireworks in a safe area away from dry grass, buildings, vehicles, and flammable materials.
d. Soak used fireworks in water prior to disposal.
e. If a firework does not work the first time, soak it in water and dispose of it.
f. Use eye protection when lighting fireworks.
g. Do not carry fireworks in pockets.
h. Do not attempt to light homemade fireworks.
i. Store fireworks in a cool and dry location.
j. Have a water hose connected to a water source or a fire extinguisher available and close by. Wet down surrounding brush prior to setting off fireworks if need be.
Enjoy the Fourth of July celebration, have fun and be safe!