https://www.hawaiinewsnow.com/2023/01/01/honolulu-ems-reports-long-list-fireworks-related-injuries-brutal-start-new-year/
The most serious was reported about 12:49 a.m. Sunday in Wahiawa, when a 29-year-old man sustained facial injuries in an apparent fireworks explosion. The patient was taken to a hospital in critical condition.
There were also at least six others in serious condition:
In Nanakuli, two men were injured when they lit fireworks near a fuel drum. Officials said they were left with deep lacerations and shrapnel injuries.
In Waipahu, a 36-year-old man was in serious condition after getting hit with a firework in his chest. In addition to cuts and burns, several of his teeth were knocked out.
Others in serious condition included patients who sustained injuries to the genitals, hands and face.
More money to Honolulu City EMS!
We need more fireworks laws -- there's not much difference between advanced fireworks and how firearms function:
- 5 hours of classroom training by state-certified professional trainers to cover laws, safety and fundamentals,
- 2 hours of hands-on live training with real fireworks
- A notarized certification saying you attended the training and passed a written test plus demonstrated proper safe handling and use of fireworks.
- A complete criminal and mental health background check
- A 2 week waiting period after applying for a permit to acquire
- A state license granting permission to use fireworks that must be renewed annually, requires a fee, another full background check for renewals, and a refresher training class and tests every 5 years. ONLY THE LICENSEE IS ALLOWED TO USE THE FIREWORKS, AND ONLY FOR THE SPECIFIC VERSION OF FIREWORK ON THE APPLICATION.
- A separate license is required for each firework type according to its specifications.
- Using or possessing fireworks without an approved license will result in heavy fines, confiscation, loss of future fireworks privileges and a felony charge.
- Fireworks can only be used in areas with signage designating the location as appropriate for that purpose. All public lands are considered Sensitive Places where fireworks are prohibited. All private business properties are considered Fireworks Free Zones unless the owner posts notices to the contrary.
The public is encouraged to identify, and if possible video record, anyone they suspect is using illegal fireworks or is not licensed to possess or use the fireworks they are seen with. The witness should then call 911 to report the situation immediately.
For Everyone's Safety