HONOLULU — In recent years, celebrations ranging from parties to major sporting events have led to a rise in illegal fireworks use across Hawaii.
These increasingly sophisticated displays have become a divisive topic among residents, viewed by some as a cultural staple while others see them as a nuisance and danger. Reports indicate that illegal fireworks have caused neighborhood disturbances, ignited fires, frightened pets, and even damaged property, including an instance where a light fixture fell during a fireworks event, narrowly missing a child.
Every New Year’s Day, Honolulu officials release statistics highlighting injuries related to fireworks, which include burns and serious injuries, sometimes resulting in fatalities.
This year, the tragic incident occurred when a bundle of mortar-style aerial fireworks tipped over, triggering a rapid series of explosions that resulted in the deaths of three women and injuries to over 20 individuals, including children. Another fatality was reported due to a separate fireworks explosion on Oahu.
With the recent tragedies, both authorities and residents are questioning whether this will lead to a decline in illegal fireworks displays or inspire stronger law enforcement actions to address the issue.
“This incident underscores the significant dangers associated with illegal fireworks,” stated Honolulu Mayor Rick Blangiardi. “They jeopardize lives, overextend emergency services, and disrupt our communities.”
Efforts to control illegal fireworks have seen limited success. Legislative action in 2023 aimed at forming a specialized task force to tackle the issue has led to substantial fireworks seizures, including three large shipping containers. However, authorities believe illegal fireworks continue to be smuggled into Hawaii regularly.
To date, the task force has seized approximately 227,000 pounds of illegal fireworks, according to government reports. Despite these efforts, the Honolulu Fire Department reported a 30% increase in fireworks-related fires during the New Year period compared to previous years.
Rep. Gregg Takayama, who advocated for against fireworks-related legislation, acknowledged the longstanding tradition of fireworks but highlighted the increasing danger posed by more powerful, illegal aerial displays compared to those from the past.
“The aerial fireworks being used today are exceedingly dangerous explosive devices,” Takayama emphasized.
Charmaine Doran, a community leader from Pearl City, believes the perception of fireworks as part of Hawaiian culture is misguided, noting their illegal status throughout her life. She observes a spike in fireworks activity around major televised events and holidays, leading to significant disturbances in her neighborhood.
Doran noted the challenges in enforcement, as community ties make residents hesitant to report neighbors. She remarked, “If I call authorities, they might retaliate.”
This hesitation was echoed in public testimony, where residents conveyed experiences of threats for reporting illegal fireworks activity.
Historically, fireworks have roots in Chinese culture, symbolizing joy and prosperity. In Hawaii, their use transcends ethnic boundaries but has evolved significantly, with many residents finding a stark contrast between traditional fireworks and today’s explosive displays.
Richard Oshiro, a local neighborhood board member, expressed hope that recent fatalities would change community attitudes toward illegal fireworks. He continues to try reporting violations, yet recognizes the limitations of law enforcement response when they cannot catch offenders in the act.
Possession of more than 50 pounds of illegal fireworks in Hawaii constitutes a felony, with severe penalties. Although recent legislation allows photographic evidence in court, effective prosecutions remain challenging.
As the community grapples with the dangers and legality of fireworks, Takayama stressed the importance of preventative measures, emphasizing the need to intercept illegal shipments at ports of entry.
“To control the fireworks issue, we must focus on stopping them before they enter our communities, as tracking them becomes increasingly difficult once they are in circulation,” Takayama stated.
