HomeMy WebLinkAbout2021-07-01 KPD NR Officials remind public to stay safe this weekendDEREK S.K. KAWAKAMI, MAYOR
MICHAEL A. DAHILIG, MANAGING DIRECTOR
News Release
For Immediate Release: July 1, 2021
COUNTY OF KAUA‘I
KAUA‘I POLICE DEPARTMENT
TODD G. RAYBUCK, CHIEF
(808) 241-1600
Officials remind public to stay safe this weekend
LĪHU‘E – County officials are reminding everyone to stay safe this holiday weekend as the nation
celebrates the 4th of July.
The Kaua‘i Fire Department reminds the public that it is illegal to set off fireworks on public
property, including streets, sidewalks, or parks. In addition, removing the powder or pyrotechnic
contents from any firework is prohibited. The public is also advised that all aerial luminaries, also known
as flying lanterns or flying luminaries, are prohibited in the State of Hawai‘i, per HRS 132-19. Fireworks
and firecrackers may only be ignited on private property between 1 p.m. and 9 p.m. on July 4.
Additionally, the KFD Fire Prevention Bureau advises everyone to exercise caution when igniting
fireworks, follow listed instructions, and be sure that children are under adult supervision at all times.
“We are encouraging the public to be proactive when celebrating the 4th of July holiday
weekend, have a safe zone for fireworks, and have enough water available via bucket or water hose to
extinguish any fires or debris,” said KFD Fire Prevention Bureau Captain Jeremie Makepa. “As a
reminder, Kaua‘i may experience drier conditions in July that are conducive to brush fires, so it is
essential to celebrate responsibly to prevent fires.”
Kauaʿi police will be stepping up enforcement to help deter the use of illegal fireworks and
firecrackers this weekend. Patrol officers will also be on the roads in an effort to curtail drinking and
driving.
“We know how much fun it is for family and friends to gather during the holiday, but we want to
remind everyone to please be responsible and not get behind the wheel if you’ve been drinking. We also
would like to encourage people to please be courteous of your neighbors and keep them in mind while
celebrating,” said Chief of Police Todd G. Raybuck. “It’s great to enjoy Independence Day with fireworks
and firecrackers but it’s important to remember to do so legally, and to take into consideration the noise
and smoke that can harm others, including our kūpuna, combat veterans and our beloved pets.”
People who wish to report illegal activity may do so by contacting Kauaʿi Police Department
Dispatch at 241-1711.
The public is also reminded that Kauaʿi remains in Tier 4, with a limit on social gatherings of 10
indoors and 25 outdoors.
"As the Department of Health recently confirmed that the Delta variant is now present on
Kauaʿi, it's important that we continue to practice COVID safety, especially as we gather with family and
friends," said Mayor Derek S. K. Kawakami. "Please continue to wear your masks, keep your distance
from others and get vaccinated if you are able."
For more information on COVID rules and safety protocols, please visit www.kauai.gov/covid-19.
Photo courtesy KFD: This photo was taken after a house fire in Kekaha and helps illustrate how far
away vegetation can burn due to radiant heat, particularly in dry conditions.
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