Observe fireworks laws and safety rules

The pop-pop-pop of firecrackers already is ringing in the ears of area residents as everyone gears up for an extra-special Fourth of July celebration.

Fireworks vendors are predicting brisk sales this year as the nation recovers from the hurt of the Sept. 11 terrorist attacks and honors the men and women fighting a war overseas.

If there ever was a year to celebrate whole-heartedly, certainly this is it. But the much-needed wave of patriotism shouldn't provide an excuse to become lax about fireworks laws and safety precautions.

The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco and Firearms is reminding Independence Day observers that the manufacture, sale and use of some fireworks is illegal and falls under their jurisdiction. These are M-80s, M-100s, M-250s and M-1000s. All can cause injuries, and the last one has killed some of its users.

But even legal fireworks can be dangerous. Only foolhardy parents would let their children play with explosives without oversight.

And there are laws to keep the holiday time pleasant for everyone. In Cape Girardeau, that means only using them from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. except for July 4, when they can be fired off until midnight. Bottle rockets are prohibited here.

Those who purchase and use fireworks would do well to know the rules in their cities -- and observe them.