Hold your fire(works)

By BOB GIBBINS

TAHLEQUAH DAILY PRESS July 02, 2008 10:06 am

— Vendors have been able to lawfully sell fireworks within the city limits since June 15, but their detonation is unlawful until Friday, July 4.
As in years past, some people have already set off fireworks in Tahlequah. Police have received several calls on the violation.
Officer Brad Robertson, the department’s public information officer, said officers are and will be enforcing the city ordinance through the remainder of the Independence Day holiday.
Those in violation of the ordinance risk possible fines and/or seizure of their fireworks.
Assistant Police Chief Brian Anderson said the department can probably expect the calls and fireworks detonation to continue through the remainder of the week.
No public fireworks show is planned in Tahlequah, but some families will be having small celebrations.
Sharon DeLoache said her family is one of those that celebrates with family and some close friends.
“We started having fireworks in 1975 when we bought our house,” she said. “It’s just a small family event with some friends.”
She said the DeLoaches pay special attention to weather conditions and don’t set off fireworks if it’s exceptionally dry.
They won’t have to worry about dry conditions this year. Tahlequah has received substantial rainfall.
Another way to avoid accident or injury is plenty of adult supervision, she said.
“The adults are in charge,” she said. “The children take a small role --- mainly watching.”
Their formula for a fun evening has been successful for years. No injuries have been reported. She also said any neighbor complaints have been minimal.
“Like I said, we’ve been doing this since 1975,” she said. “Everyone’s been extremely congenial.”
Andy Jorgensen has asked Tahlequah city councilors to consider an ordinance that better controls fireworks.
He suggests homeowners consider the risk of fireworks-related accidents and understand their homeowner insurance policy. Jorgensen also said fireworks cause serious issues about pollution and health problems from the dust.
A letter to the editor of this paper written by Jorgensen states smoke and heavy metal dust allowed to settle in pool water may test toxic and require draining the backyard swimming pool.
He also says the seriousness of the fireworks problem can be found by searching for fireworks accidents, lawsuits or pollution.
Jorgensen also takes issue with the argument that the fireworks displays are a show of patriotism and claims 95 percent of the fireworks sold in the U.S. come from China and are made in deplorable conditions by children.
Those who don’t intend to purchase fireworks from a local vendor, but would still like to see a display can take the short trip to the south end of the Lake Tenkiller dam. This year’s show starts at dusk on Friday, July 4.
A large crowd is expected so those intending to attend the event should plan on arriving early.

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