Editor:
I write regarding the suggestion of banning fireworks.
I’m not a fan of personal fireworks per se, but I’m really not a fan of banning things just for the sake of it.
No doubt that fireworks are loud, smoky and moderately risky. Proper use requires attention and responsibility, but there is a manner in which they can be used properly and enjoyed.
History is riddled with well-intentioned prohibitions of activities that proved to be an overreaction to a problem that didn’t really exist and perhaps only served to create a problem where there wasn’t one before.
I appreciate that New Westminster has restrictions and requires permits and that the city provides those who want to participate a reasonable opportunity for a few days a year, as opposed to sending folks set on participating into the shadows which is likely more unsafe.
James Silvester, New Westminster
