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Related: Editorials & Other Articles, Issue Forums, Alliance Forums, Region ForumsMust read concerning fireworks.(from Bangor PD.)
I drove by two fireworks outlets tonight on the way to the coast. The crowds appeared to be pleased with their boxes full of explosives; nothing says Independence Day like fire and boom-booms
Suburbans and Subarus were filled to the headliner with the makings of an alternate closing scene to the classic "Bridge on the River Kwai," but the only whistling to be done will be dad trying to get the family dog to return from a panicked gallop toward Waldo County.
I'm a firm believer in life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness, but keep in mind that there are others who might think you are being a little bit of a turd.
Be cognizant (that means be aware) that some people have babies that need their sleep, there are hardworking neighborhood veterans who have a touch of PTSD, and animals who quiver on the couchor under it just before they take a whiz on the upholstery.
Fireworks that make noise (boom-boom) are banned within the city limits of Bangor, Maine. Don't call me, or leave messages inquiring if it's okay if you just "shoot off a few that you have left over from last year." This is my official answer to all the inquiries.
No, it's not okay.
Head to a township with a number for a name, or near a lake where you can become an enemy of all who want a little peace and quiet.
Yeah, yeah, before you get all up in our grill about being unpatriotic jackbooted thugs, we are only enforcing an ordinance that was passed by other adults who were ushered into office by the local voting population.
Do you think we really care if you are tossing firecrackers at your uncle who is trying to have a Schlitz on the webbed lawnchair out by the above-ground pool that you just peed in?
Nope, we don't care; however, we will root for him if he chases you down and gives you hairy-fisted-ham sandwich to the back of your melon with the fresh summer covid-cut done by your sister who was pounding her fourth berry-mix Truly and talking on the phone to Stewart, her new boyfriend from Boothbay Harbor; dude, that's one horrible hairdo. In the industry, it's referred to as a hair-don't.
Don't harass people with your firecrackers. That's a good start to being a responsible American.
So, in closing, people will be calling us when you are blowing-up stuff. Then, we have to come by and ask really simple questions while you try to hide the burns on your fingers and the rest of the Schlitz you stole from your uncle while he was trying to catch his breath out in front of the house.
Just cut the crap.
Thank you. If you are angry about this post, please call your own police department to file a complaint
Lt. Tim Cotton
Bangor Police Department fireworks safety liaison (and the guy who is rooting for your uncle).
Be well.
fleur-de-lisa
(14,624 posts)them over my house. My cats are freaking out.
I hate this holiday. New Years too.
Ahpook
(2,750 posts)I know it sucks, but helps the wee ones
It out by turning tv up. Tried it. Doesnt work.
My "I have a pool and have to invite all my maskless friends over " neighbor across the street has been at it all day and now he and his jackass brother a few houses down seem to want outdo each other with fireworks. If I complain to our part time police they do not investigate without ratting you out so it is pointless. I've tried talking to the neighbor in past years, he's just an ass.
Wishing us all peace on my most hated holiday.
tblue37
(65,340 posts)Siwsan
(26,260 posts)Past years, the neighbor across the street has fired off barrages right over my lot. I was constantly worried about him setting something on fire. Especially this year - we've been going through a real dry spell/heat wave and the lawns are starting to turn into straw. Calling the police is a waste of time because he works in law enforcement. You can't believe the kind of stuff that family has gotten away with.
I'm keeping an eye on that house to see if his kids and grandkids start showing up. At the very first "POP!!!" I'm turning on the sprinkler, full blast.
Ferrets are Cool
(21,106 posts)just my doggies and getting to sleep before 2am.
Siwsan
(26,260 posts)Temps are going to be edging 100, next week. MAYBE a slight chance of some rain on Wednesday and again on Friday, but I won't hold my breath.
This is one of the most miserable stretches of heat I can remember - especially this early in the season. But, on the bright side, it's ideal weather for my garden so I should be well stocked with veg, this Winter.
Thekaspervote
(32,762 posts)Ferrets are Cool
(21,106 posts)and here is the crazy thing. It's illegal in city limits here but the cops do nothing. I've never seen/heard it as bad as this year.
Ferrets are Cool
(21,106 posts)or my dog's.
Delphinus
(11,830 posts)As I said on another thread, this is three weeks and counting. Tonight is, of course, the "best", but I doubt it will end when the 4th is over.
I am tired.
Under The Radar
(3,401 posts)You are a good writer Lt. Tim Cotton.
One day I hope to meet you and convince you to make the pilgrimage from the Green Party to the Democratic Party.
Maraya1969
(22,479 posts)My dogs are right besides me but I have seen others have really bad reactions to these damn things.
bucolic_frolic
(43,146 posts)It's the lowest mentality. It's part of the culture of poverty in my opinion. The animals are very frightened, they don't know which direction to go.
Thekaspervote
(32,762 posts)CBHagman
(16,984 posts)I'm not in Maine, and I don't have pets or PTSD, but though most years the fireworks noise is a nuisance, this year it seems oppressive, a true exercise in being a menace to society. For all I know most of what I hear comes from people who are angry and frustrated and blowing off steam, but my first impulse is to plan ahead for next year so I won't be anywhere near the sound of fireworks. Failing that, I will go around with a tranquilizer gun once I get training in how to use it.
aikoaiko
(34,169 posts)https://www.ajc.com/news/local/how-late-can-you-shoot-fireworks-georgia/GNyS7X1OA56DqC7eSOucmL/
How late can you shoot fireworks?
Georgians can set off fireworks on normal days and certain holidays until 11:59 p.m., including the Fourth of July, provided local authorities havent issued a general noise ordinance. Fireworks are also allowed statewide until 1 a.m. on New Years Day, according to 2018 legislation.Regardless of local legislation, the use of fireworks is legal until 11:59 p.m. on the last Saturday and Sunday in May corresponding with Memorial Day, on July 3 and July 4 and on Labor Day. Note that if there is a drought, the governor can forbid the use of any and all fireworks.
What fireworks can you shoot in Georgia?
In 2016, the state legalized the use and sale of fireworks such as firecrackers, Roman candles, bottle rockets, sky rockets, sparklers, smoke and punk, fountains, missiles, novelties, crackle and strobe, parachutes, wheels, spinners, sky flyers, display shells and mortars.» Savannah cancels Fourth of July fireworks
Where can you NOT light fireworks in Georgia?
Some private communities may prohibit fireworks, so be sure to check your complex laws. Remember, its illegal to use fireworks within 100 yards of an electric plant, water treatment plant, waste-water treatment plant, gas station, refinery, electric substation, jail or prison, helipad, hospital, nursing home or other health care facility. Its also illegal to set off fireworks within any park, historic site, recreational area or other state property, according to a copy of state fireworks laws from Paulding County. While Georgia cities cannot ban the use of fireworks, they can extend hours, regulate where fireworks are sold through zoning and enact taxes on sales, according to the Georgia Municipal Association.
central scrutinizer
(11,648 posts)Nope, we dont care... LOL. Throw in some profanity and it could be The Ferret.
PTWB
(4,131 posts)I love it.
PoindexterOglethorpe
(25,853 posts)where I am.
When I become Dictator of North America the strongest fireworks you will be able to buy will be sparklers. I mean it.
captain queeg
(10,185 posts)Off in the front yard. In a rural area. A few years ago we got a bunch and went out to the beach where everyone goes nuts. It was actually kind of scary. Drunks and fireworks dont mix. I think that was the last time we did it.