Pray for rain. Precipitation appears to be the only inoculation Honolulu has against the smoky haze and endangerment of illegal fireworks.

It's not that law enforcement isn't trying to beat back the annual appearance of aerial fireworks and other prohibited incendiaries that surface as the New Year approaches. But with O'ahu's laws allowing for certain products while banning others — and with the ease of slipping illegal aerials through in the midst of legal shipments — the logistics of enforcement become nearly impossible.

What would make it possible? A complete ban on fireworks, excluding the professional displays. Fire officials favor it, but such a ban has proven to be a political impossibility. There is a cultural affinity, after all.

Instead, Honolulu is left with making incremental changes that offer only limited potential. For starters, the laws defining which fireworks require a permit must be refined. Too many of the "novelty" items, some of which produce considerable heat and smoke, are being set off, because the buyers don't need to hassle with a permit application.

Secondly, it wouldn't hurt to narrow the window somewhat during which fireworks can be purchased.

But ultimately, the only solution for our crowded island is a ban. It may take a disastrous fire or widespread injury to bolster the political will required for its passage.

And that's sad.