Fireworks: Let freedom ring for one night only

Re: “Lakewood out of step with fireworks law,” (TNT, 2/12).

In regard to your recent editorial about potential changes to fireworks rules in Lakewood, I agree with one of your statements and strongly disagree with another.

It does seem reasonable to restrict firework use to July 4 rather than July 3-5. Also, Lakewood needs to officially permit use of fireworks on New Year’s Eve, if this date has not already been addressed in the laws. These changes would allow for celebrations on the actual holidays.

“Consistency” with neighboring cities is not a reason to change, however.

My strongest objection is to your urging the use of drones for enforcement. In an era when facial recognition is improving and cameras and microphones are becoming ubiquitous, privacy concerns are valid.

There is irony, as well as concern, in recommending expansion of surveillance on a holiday meant to celebrate independence. Let freedom ring on July 4 and New Year’s Eve, too. Let’s light up the sky on those single nights with nary a drone in sight.

This story was originally published February 19, 2020 at 1:27 PM with the headline "Fireworks: Let freedom ring for one night only."