Editor's Note: For fireworks, leave it to the pros

It is that time of year again. The weather is warming, trees and plants are needing to drink more water to keep that green hue, and there are the sounds of bombs bursting in air. No, you are not in downtown Baghdad. You are in Shafter coming close to the Fourth of July.

Yes, the city seems to be under siege, and it’s not some terrorist organization, it is all friendly fire.

This year seems to be a lot worse than any in recent memory. You can’t go one night without seeing a bunch of illegal fireworks lighting up the sky and hearing those obnoxious blasts.

This not only a nuisance, but I hope people realize that it is not just the noise and flashes that can damage a quiet night. They can also mean a trip to the emergency room, or a visit from the Fire Department.

If you need proof, you could remember back a couple of years ago to the plight of the Scales family, who had their home burned down when it was lit up by a stray firework.

I really think that even the fireworks that you can buy at those booths are another nuisance and danger. There are just as many reports of damage and injury from results of mishaps with the “safe and sane” fireworks as there are illegal ones.

I love a good fireworks show that is done by a professional company, trained in putting on the displays. But, people left to their own devices can mean a big mess, including the risk of fires, injury and property damage.

You are dealing with explosives when you come down to it. Add to that the fact that some of the people are already half “lit” themselves, and you have a recipe for disaster. I know with the cancellation of the professional shows makes it even more desirable to take the show into your own hands. But please consider what the risk is just for a minute or two of enjoyment. Now, with the addition of the $1,000 fines that will be doled out for violators with the illegal fireworks, maybe there will be a chance of a legitimate “safe and sane” holiday.