Leave fireworks to pros

The Independence Day celebrations are finished, and hopefully everyone had a festive, but safe holiday weekend. Of course we hope everyone enjoyed at least one of the civic fireworks displays conducted by trained professionals for the benefit of the public.

And we would hope, perhaps unreasonably, that area residents would satisfy themselves with those until next year. Unfortunately we know from pops and bangs we hear at night some among us continue to celebrate with fireworks, to the detriment of our nerves and those of our pets.

Dogs are especially sensitive to the loud noises associated with fireworks. The Humane Society of the United States reports July is a particularly bad month for dogs running away, frightened by the loud explosions of fireworks displays.

The continued use of firecrackers and other consumer fireworks after the July 4 holiday prolongs the anxiety for the dogs and extends the time they are likely to run away. With our children out of school during the summer we certainly don't want large numbers of frightened animals running loose.

Beyond concern for the animals, use of explosive consumer fireworks in the state of Ohio is illegal. While such fireworks may be purchased in the state, they must be transported out of state within 48 hours of purchase.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, an estimated 9,200 people were treated in emergency rooms for fireworks-related injuries during 2006. Two-thirds of those injuries occurred between June 16 and July 16.

In 2004, an estimated 2,200 structure or vehicle fires were caused by fireworks, resulting in $21 million in direct property damage.

The excitement of a consumer fireworks explosion is finished in a split second, but the consequences could last a lifetime. The reasons to refrain from using fireworks far outweigh that momentary thrill.