Recent years in Hawaii have seen a rise in illegal fireworks being set off during various events, both large and small. These displays, ranging from parties to Super Bowls to Thanksgiving celebrations, have become increasingly sophisticated and are both adored and despised by residents. Some consider these fireworks a part of the state’s culture, but they have caused problems such as rattling neighborhoods, starting fires, terrorizing pets, and even causing injuries to individuals.
Every New Year’s Day, Honolulu officials release a list of casualties resulting from the previous night’s fireworks, often including burns, shrapnel wounds, and, tragically, sometimes even deaths. Despite efforts to crack down on illegal fireworks, such as the creation of a task force in 2023, the issue persists. The ease with which the task force has seized large quantities of fireworks indicates that contraband fireworks are likely being smuggled into Hawaii on a daily basis.
A recent tragedy involving a fireworks mishap resulted in the deaths of three women and numerous injuries, including children. This incident has prompted discussions among authorities and residents about the need to curb these dangerous displays and enforce stricter regulations.
While some view fireworks as a longstanding tradition, others recognize the severe risks posed by modern, explosive aerial fireworks available on the black market. Despite efforts to tighten controls on fireworks, enforcement remains challenging due to reluctance to report neighbors and concerns about potential retaliation.
In some communities, the escalation of fireworks activity from Halloween to the New Year is disruptive, with explosions continuing throughout the night. Residents express frustration over the impact on their quality of life and safety, highlighting the need for more effective measures to address the issue.
A neighbor threatened a woman after she asked his brother to stop setting off illegal fireworks during a New Year’s Eve show that lasted well into the night. “It was the first time I felt threatened, not just by the danger the aerial fireworks posed to my family and property, but also for my own safety from this neighbor who accused me of disrespecting his culture,” said Takushi. “He has since apologized, but this incident highlights why many people hesitate to report neighbors engaging in dangerous firework displays.”
Fireworks are believed to have originated in China over 2,000 years ago, symbolizing joy, prosperity, and protection against evil. In Hawaii, fireworks are enjoyed by residents of all backgrounds, not just those of Chinese descent.
Takushi emphasized the shift from traditional firecrackers used for cultural purposes to modern, loud explosives. “A string of firecrackers at midnight to ward off bad spirits is cultural, not the deafening explosives that make you feel like you’re in a war zone,” she explained.
Richard Oshiro, the secretary of Waipahu’s neighborhood board on Oahu, expressed hope that recent incidents would prompt a change in attitudes toward fireworks. Despite the challenges of enforcement, Oshiro strives to report illegal fireworks displays, acknowledging the limitations of law enforcement in catching offenders in the act.
Possession of more than 50 pounds of illegal fireworks in Hawaii is a felony punishable by up to five years in prison and a $10,000 fine. While the law now permits the submission of photographs and videos as evidence in court, prosecution still faces obstacles. Lawmaker Takayama stressed the necessity of better enforcement of existing laws to address the issue. “We need to find more effective ways to uphold these laws,” he stated. “Despite numerous reports of illegal aerial fireworks being used, many perpetrators go unpunished.”
Takayama proposed controlling the influx of illegal fireworks by targeting Hawaii’s ports. By intercepting shipments containing illegal fireworks, law enforcement can mitigate the problem. While some seizures have been made, more action is needed to address the issue effectively. “Restricting the flow of fireworks into our communities is crucial, as once they are here, tracking them down becomes significantly challenging,” Takayama emphasized.
Reporting by Johnson, based in Seattle.
