Fireworks are a multimillion dollar business in Alabama. The interest of state officials in accommodating the industry is understandable.
But how much sense does it make for the state to back away from a ban on fireworks during a critical drought?
Earlier this month, Gov. Bob Riley signed a proclamation saying that fireworks could be used only over water in 33 of the counties where the drought has hit hardest. But that directive hit fireworks dealers hard. They complained that sales dipped by as much as a third.
Seeking relief, the three companies that distribute most of the fireworks sold in Alabama lobbied Riley and the state Forestry Commission for a deal: Let them sell firecrackers, sparklers and other “ground-based" fireworks, and they would voluntarily stop marketing items like rockets.
The state, unfortunately, went for the deal.
It’s telling that a couple of days before it was announced formally that the top forester in Montgomery County warned that pastures and woodlands in the state’s parched areas are a tinderbox.
A spark from a piece of farm equipment can create a serious fire, he cautioned. In recent days, blazes have even started from the heated moving parts of a hay baler.
And the state is willing to allow fireworks -- and their attendant matches and lighters -- in this environment?
Sure, we need the revenue. But what price do our leaders place on safety?
But how much sense does it make for the state to back away from a ban on fireworks during a critical drought?
Earlier this month, Gov. Bob Riley signed a proclamation saying that fireworks could be used only over water in 33 of the counties where the drought has hit hardest. But that directive hit fireworks dealers hard. They complained that sales dipped by as much as a third.
Seeking relief, the three companies that distribute most of the fireworks sold in Alabama lobbied Riley and the state Forestry Commission for a deal: Let them sell firecrackers, sparklers and other “ground-based" fireworks, and they would voluntarily stop marketing items like rockets.
The state, unfortunately, went for the deal.
It’s telling that a couple of days before it was announced formally that the top forester in Montgomery County warned that pastures and woodlands in the state’s parched areas are a tinderbox.
A spark from a piece of farm equipment can create a serious fire, he cautioned. In recent days, blazes have even started from the heated moving parts of a hay baler.
And the state is willing to allow fireworks -- and their attendant matches and lighters -- in this environment?
Sure, we need the revenue. But what price do our leaders place on safety?
