Urging The Department Of Law Enforcement, Fire Departments And Police Departments Of Each County, Humane Societies In Each County, And Media Organizations Throughout The State To Collaborate To Create And Disseminate Public Service Announcements To Highlight The Dangers Of, And Advocate Against The Use Of, Illegal Fireworks In Order To Protect The Health And Safety Of The Community, Pets, And Wildlife.
The resolution points out that illegal fireworks have caused substantial harm in the past, including numerous injury incidents and property damage. During a one-day period from December 31, 2023, to January 1, 2024, the Honolulu Fire Department responded to 23 fireworks-related fires. Moreover, there were reports of injuries inflicted by fireworks on residents, including children and the elderly, which will have lifelong consequences for some. The bill highlights the importance of education and awareness in changing public attitudes toward the use of fireworks, indicating that effective PSAs could foster safer practices during celebrations.
Senate Concurrent Resolution 48 (SCR48) aims to address the significant public safety, health, and environmental risks associated with the use of illegal fireworks in Hawaii. The resolution urges various county departments including law enforcement, fire departments, and police departments, as well as humane societies and media organizations, to collaborate in creating and disseminating public service announcements (PSAs). The goal is to highlight the dangers of illegal fireworks and advocate against their use to protect the local community, pets, and wildlife.
By urging collaboration among key stakeholders, SCR48 aims to create a comprehensive approach to advocating for public safety in relation to illegal fireworks. The awareness campaigns proposed in the resolution seek to educate the public on the dangers of fireworks, ultimately aiming to reduce the incidents of fireworks-related injuries and environmental harm, thereby protecting both community members and wildlife.
The discussions surrounding SCR48 likely include concerns about balancing enjoyment of fireworks during celebrations with the risks they pose to public health and safety. Critics may argue that the resolution places undue restrictions on personal freedom to celebrate and enjoy fireworks. However, advocates emphasize the necessity for community-wide awareness to mitigate the adverse effects that illegal fireworks have, such as triggering PTSD in veterans, causing distress to pets, and damaging local wildlife habitats.