Ordinarily, a ban against the sale of fireworks within city limits is not a difficult choice for a city council to make. A quick look at the number of cities, regardless of size, that still allow any type of fireworks to be lit by the public is evidence of this. There aren”t that many. But, when you have to take into consideration that a ban will make it more difficult for several non-profit, youth organizations to raise funds to operate on and you also consider the fact that fireworks have been legal for many years inside the city limits of Lakeport, it made the decision here a little more problematical.
Although we do not like the fact that some organizations will face financial hardships until they are able to transition to different projects for their fundraising efforts, we agree with the decision that city council made. We believe that many Lakeport residents do, as well. Lots of locals have grown tired of the noise for days before and after the 4th of July. They say it has become an irritant for them and for their pets.
Of course, one of the major concerns, from law enforcement and fire department personnel, is that regardless of whether fireworks are classified as Safe-and-Sane, or not, they still pose a danger in several ways. Children can be seriously burned by seemingly safe sparklers. And, whenever it takes a match or lighter to set something off, it will have the capability of touching off a grass or structure fire. In this area, that can have devastating results.
In a report from a few years back called The Dangers of Fireworks, developed by the National Fire Data Center, part of FEMA”s U.S. Fire Administration, it was stated, “Fireworks are especially injurious to children – even those that are considered relatively safe like sparklers and firecrackers,” said U.S. Fire Administrator R. David Paulison. “The safest way to enjoy Fourth of July celebrations is by attending public fireworks displays conducted by professional pyrotechnicians.”
We agree. Perhaps it will be a good idea to take any of the money you were planning on spending on fireworks and donate it for the community fireworks display.
