HELCO: Fireworks and electric wires don’t mix

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Hawaii Electric Light Co. is urging the public to use caution if celebrating New Year’s Eve with fireworks.

Hawaii Electric Light Co. is urging the public to use caution if celebrating New Year’s Eve with fireworks.

Carefully set up and use fireworks in an area clear of overhead power lines. Do not string fireworks on utility poles, according to HELCO.

If using a ladder, pole or tie lines to set up fireworks, keep a 10-foot clearance from power lines. Power lines are energized and not insulated and could cause a serious electrical shock, burn or electrocution, HELCO stated.

If an object should become entangled in an overhead power line, don’t try to free it. Call HELCO’s trouble line at 969-6666.