Fireworks should be contained in a safe place, designated by town officials who, hopefully, are aware of the hazards and consequences involved with the use of fireworks. If fireworks are set off randomly in neighborhoods, there is a high risk of fires and injuries to persons and animals.

Certainly, Gov. Paul LePage cannot expect local police forces and firefighters to effectively monitor such chaos. Can we realistically depend on localized celebrations to be alcohol- and drug-free? Fireworks displays are always in need of expert supervision and execution. Such was not the case in Lewiston, and probably in towns all over Maine that night.

Perhaps the legalization of fireworks contributed to Gov. LePage’s popularity and, possibly, brought in some votes and tax dollars, but does that represent intelligent accountability to the people he serves?

Also, does making drastic cuts in MaineCare and social services exhibit intelligent accountability any more than legalizing fireworks?

I suggest that LePage attend an Alzheimer’s support group for caretakers and educate himself to just one of the real and many needs of Maine people. You cannot placate people living in a serious economic climate by giving them the freedom to shoot off a firecracker.

We are not the uneducated, “Screaming rabble” that Taylor Caldwell refers to in some of her writings. There are critical consequences at stake here.

I will gladly give LePage all the respect due him, but he must first earn that respect and make educated decisions.

It is the democratic way.

Charlotte Gobeille, Lewiston