Happy Fourth of July everyone! On today, our day of independence, it is customary that we celebrate and make merry. The traditional celebration method is using fireworks, both cities and towns and by individuals. Unfortunately, misuse of fireworks has lead to disfigurements, amputations, and harsh restrictions in almost every state. So I guess the question is, should we really risk life limbs just to watch some flashing lights?

Fireworks in themselves are not evil as some watch groups would have you believe. Fireworks are simply small amounts of gun powder and some fancy minerals to add the colors, and the fact of the matter is that if this was a hundred years ago you and your children would see gun powder as normal and safe, so what is the difference today? Way back when if someone was hurt or scarred by a misfire or by a gun powder explosion it was their fault, not the gun powder’s so why is it different?

Fireworks are like everything else in the world—better in moderation. If you and relations light up 30 thousand fireworks to go off at the same time or if you hold the firework in your hand while you wait for it to explode, of course someone is going to get hurt. If you launch the firework under a tree, an awning, or in a carport, of course something bad is going to happen. If you use fireworks safely and responsibly, you shouldn’t have any problems. Also, if you have small children who can barely hold their bladder, don’t have them hold a firework. Most fireworks have age restrictions for a reason: because it takes a certain amount of skill to operate them. Nothing is more aggravating then hearing someone complain that daughter dearest got hurt by the evil fireworks when they were the ones who gave a four year old a dancing dragon firework. You wouldn’t let your five year old drive your car, so why do you let them play with a firework?

Here is my last note on this fourth of July, please be safe. Use your fireworks, your sparklers, and your crackers, but please do so with caution. Fireworks are awesome, use them, don’t abuse them. See you tomorrow!