EDITORIAL
For auld lang syne, mute the fireworks

By most indications, O'ahu could explode into a noisy, smoky and possibly fatal blitzkrieg on New Year's Eve if aficionados of firecrackers and aerial fireworks are free to run amok.

As of Friday, O'ahu residents had bought nearly 3,000 cases of firecrackers. That's about 1,000 more than last year.

Given the potential rise in explosives, we ask — as we do every year — that firework consumers obtain permits and limit their noisemakers to the hours of 9 p.m. on New Year's Eve to 1 a.m. on New Year's Day, as the law requires.

Not that we don't appreciate the splendor of pyrotechnics. Professional displays are a spectacular way to celebrate major holidays and events. Nothing says ta-da! quite like fireworks.

But the downside of fireworks, especially do-it-yourself displays, is that they can maim and kill, and they have. Plus, the noise and air pollution are hazardous for pets and people with respiratory ailments and allergies.

Now, we'll accept there's a local tradition of setting off firecrackers outside the home to ward off evil spirits or make noise just for the fun of it.

But don't tell us it's your cultural mandate. We don't buy that excuse for cockfighting either.

If you must play with fireworks, here are some safety tips from the Honolulu Fire Department:

• Use only approved fireworks from licensed retail outlets.
• Always read and follow warnings and instructions.
• Ensure that other people are out of range before lighting fireworks.
• Fireworks should only be lit on smooth, flat surfaces away from buildings, dry vegetation and flammable materials.
• Never set off fireworks in metal or glass containers.
• Have a garden hose or a bucket of water handy in the event of a fire.
• Children should only use fireworks under the direct supervision of an adult. Even sparklers can be dangerous to small children.
• Leave the fireworks to professionals and consider watching a public display.