To the editor:

If the heat and dry weather continue and we add a strong wind, Lawrence will be looking down the barrel of a gun as we begin our three-plus days of fireworks. Last year we had a very, very close call. I’ve been told that the fire on Colorado Street, caused by fireworks, came within seconds of having a much more serious outcome. All our off-duty firefighters were called back to duty due to this fire. They missed their own holidays and were paid overtime for the extra shifts.

Our current ordinance is unenforceable. Many illegal fireworks including bottle rockets are used and many folks do not respect the rights or safety of others.

Air quality during this firefest makes breathing difficult for anyone suffering from lung disease such as asthma or emphysema according to the American Lung Assn. Fireworks contain poisonous substances that are released into our air and washed through storm drains into the river and our water supply.

We ask our brave firefighters to respond to fires all year long and they do. Why ask them to risk their lives unnecessarily? Wouldn’t it be a fitting tribute this year to eliminate this preventable hazard?

Tell your city commissioners you support a fireworks ban. Ask them where they stand on this issue. Ask when they will be willing to vote for a fireworks ban.

2001 was a warning year for us. Let’s hope we get a fireworks ban in Lawrence before real tragedy strikes.

Patricia Sinclair,

Lawrence