Editor,

I am writing in support of the ordinance banning fireworks in the City of Langley.

In my opinion, the ban will improve the safety of the citizens and properties in Langley.

Every year, the local fire departments of Island County Fire Protection District No. 3 (Whidbey Island) respond to multiple fires frequently started by fireworks.

In the dry months of summer, these wildland fires can quickly grow out of control and consume acres of land, and occasionally threaten houses, livestock and people.

These fires consume valuable resources and tax our first responders.

The same people who are fighting those fires also have to respond to house fires, car accidents, heart attacks and a myriad of other issues.

None of these particular crisis moments follows a set schedule, so multiple events happening at once is not uncommon.

We can be smarter by reducing the risk and potential of injury and damage by keeping the pyrotechnic shows and explosives in the hands of experts who can safely put on a show for the rest of us.

Taking active steps towards the removal of explosives and pyrotechnics from the hands of amateurs and party goers in the City of Langley is the responsible and right thing to do for the safety of our citizens, homes and businesses.

Jim Dobberfuhl

Langley