Isle fireworks create dangerous custom

THE ISSUE Two men have been charged with setting off a homemade bomb that injured a girl last New Year's Eve.

PEOPLE who continue Hawaii's fireworks tradition should heed the cautionary episode that resulted in a young girl's grave injuries and charges against two men who are accused of setting off a homemade bomb with a sparkler that caused her pain.

Even without augmentation, fireworks are dangerous. As New Year's Eve approaches, people intent on lighting up the noisy, smoke-making poppers and crackers are reminded to be careful of others who don't share the same enthusiasm for the custom.

The men made the bomb from highly flammable acetylene, hollow tile and other substances and set it off with a sparkler last New Year's Eve in Aiea. The bomb blew a hole through Cydnee Somera's left hand, breaking wrist bones and causing nerve damage that required surgery.

She was not the only victim. Last year, nearly 9,600 people in the nation went to hospital emergency rooms for treatment of fireworks injuries.

On the Fourth of July, more than 80 percent of 123 fires on Oahu were started by fireworks. Though winter rain usually dampens brush, several homes are set ablaze every New Year's Eve.

Fireworks also put at risk people with asthma and other health problems.

Six other states have banned consumer fireworks. Hawaii should join them.