Long before the invention of flame retardant PJs, giddy barefoot children would celebrate the Fourth of July by running and playing with sparklers, joyfully writing their names in the dusky sky. It’s one of those indelible summer memories. Of course, these are the same kids who would bounce around the back of the family station wagon like tiny spheres in a pinball machine or ride their bike with reckless abandon and without a bicycle helmet. Emergency rooms were filled with these kids getting stitched up and patched back together following accidental injuries. Thankfully, we’ve come a long way in the arena of child safety and most parents today understand that accidental almost always means preventable.
Yet, there’s no denying that there’s something magical about the Fourth of July. It’s a red, white and blue holiday in brilliant Technicolor, jam-packed with images of family picnics, softball and sunshine — capped off by spectacular fireworks. It just wouldn’t be the Fourth without the fireworks in a blustery, big-bang show of star-spangled Americana. What’s not to love?
Just ask the folks who staff the emergency room, fire departments or even veterinary clinics. This isn’t likely their favorite holiday. Injuries, property damage and traumatized pets are the fallout they’ll be dealing with as folks are packing up the hibachi and heading off to bed.
At the risk of sounding preachy, we shouldn’t have to remind anyone that illegal fireworks are illegal for a reason. Even fireworks of the safe and sane variety require another important "s" word — supervision. Honestly, it’s best to leave the fireworks to the pyrotechnic experts. Thankfully our region is loaded with opportunities to view professional shows. Close to home, the sky will be illuminated with community firework displays in Arlington, Edmonds, Everett, Monroe, Oak Harbor and Darrington. In Seattle, traditional displays will also light up the shores of Lake Union and Elliott Bay. If the thought of finding a parking spot, coupled with the inevitable post-show traffic jam, aren’t appealing, there’s always a cozy spot in the recliner right there in front of the television where you won’t miss a moment of the action.
This year, we’re all in the mood to celebrate freedom. And there’s no reason we can’t do that safely, with a little planning ahead and some common sense.
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