Good article.

Unfortunately for us the state of Utah has decided to allow the sale of Class "C" pyrotechnics. This includes items that move (bottle rockets, roman candles, etc.), and devices that explode.

These are much more likely to cause injuries and fires than "Safe and Sane" fireworks (fountains, cones, sparklers,etc.) which are sold in other states that don't allow fire crackers and other rockets and explosives.

All states experience a spike in fires and related injuries this time of year, but the highest number of instances occur in areas that allow non "Safe and Sane" fireworks, like Utah. Children and homes along slopes and atop hill sides are especially at risk in this desert climate.

Are you from or live in Utah? I doubt it.

I've lived in Utah for 33 years. During that time, bottle rockets, sky rockets, roman candles, firecrackers, etc. have been illegal.

Where's the data supporting your false claim that firecrackers are the number one cause of injury and fires during the summer months?

If my memory serves me correctly, the vast majority of fires in the state are caused by lightning. Further, I checked the CDC's website and fireworks aren't in the top ten causes of injury to children.

There are many devices and activities that are hazardous (swimming pools, barbeque grills, campfires, sticks, knives, cars, motorcycles, four wheelers, ovens, electric wiring, hunting, rock climbing, water sports, boating, fatty foods, etc.). That doesn't mean they should be banned nor do we need more legislation.

I prefer that we recognize hazards, exercise common sense, but keep the government off our backs. We don't need a police state, but that is the direction we're heading.

I don't know what state you're talking about, but UT does NOT allow the sale of bottle rockets or roman candles. Some class "C" pyrotechnics are allowed, but any firework sold must be approved by the state fire marshal.

If the rockets and candles were allowed, I'd be first in line to buy them. Unfortunately for me, they're not.

fireworks should be banned and only allowed at professional displays.

Let's ban everything that's hazardous, why don't we. What a nut.

Play safe boys and girls and no one gets hurt. Fireworks are an American tradition in backyards everywhere, the big shows are nice but let's face it, when your the one having a party no one wants to pack it up, especially with guests who drink and might drive- plus the kids in the car. No way, let the sober one's light them in their own yard, make a pot of coffee, have a sleep over and enjoy the red white and boom!