DEAR ABBY: The Fourth of July is almost here, and I would like you to remind your readers that it is safer to watch fireworks at a professional display than to use them on their own.
Every year, thousands of Americans -- many of them children -- receive injuries serious enough to require a trip to the hospital. The typical injuries are to the head, face and hands, and many result in blindness and amputations. Even sparklers, often given to young children as toys, burn at temperatures as hot as 1,200 degrees.
Please, Abby, ask your readers to think twice this Fourth of July about needlessly exposing themselves and their children to serious injury. Instead, attend a public display put on by professionals who are trained to safely handle dangerous materials. -- GEORGE D. MILLER, PRESIDENT, NATIONAL FIRE PROTECTION ASSOCIATION, QUINCY, MASS.
DEAR MR. MILLER: Thank you for the reminder. I couldn't have said it better myself. Readers, please take note, and have a safe Fourth of July.