Celebration is in the air. Grills are getting fired up, and folks are packing parks and beaches to mark Independence Day.

But that's not the only thing in the air. Fireworks will also fill the air. And while the tight economy has contributed to a dip in fireworks permit sales, the typical blasts and aerials will still light up the night sky.

For its part, the Honolulu Fire Department will take the usual precautions. But the dry summer season has ignited even greater concern over brushfires — that means an even greater dose of caution is required from revelers.

Fireworks laws try to limit the impact — from fires to health concerns, particularly among folks with asthma and other breathing ailments. Yet even the permitted use of certain fireworks creates more than its share of problems, keeping firefighters and police busy around the clock.

Though efforts to ban fireworks during the New Year have come up short, a ban — with the exception of organized public displays — during the dry and fire-prone summer months should be seriously considered.

The health and safety benefits are clear. Leaving the pyrotechnics to the pros would ensure a safe and enjoyable Fourth of July. Now, that's worth celebrating.