Don’t blow it on
Independence Day

The Fire Department has suggested that the people of Oahu go watch the public displays of fireworks on the Fourth of July rather than spend their money for permits, firecrackers and more dangerous explosives.

The vote in this corner is to heed the advice of those who must fight the fires that are the consequence of careless -- and often illegal -- use of fireworks. Indeed, it should be a no-brainer.

Can anyone seriously argue that the excitement of fireworks is worth the brush fires, burned houses, injured children, aggravation for those with respiratory ailments, pets cowering with fright, and even death? Maybe one day in a simpler past, but not today. The argument that this is a traditional way to celebrate our independence pales before the potentially grim consequences.

Not only will the firefighters be alert next Tuesday and Wednesday, but their brothers and sisters in the police department should be equally alert in handing out tickets to those who flout the law.

Richard Halloran

---