This year, let's skip the fireworks

It’s very hot and dry. Have you noticed? As a result, fire districts and authorities in Lincoln County and throughout Eastern Washington are asking that residents refrain from lighting fireworks as part of their Independence Day celebrations this weekend.

It’s not the news we wanted to hear (especially for resident pyrotechnics inclined to drop $1,000-plus on patriotic explosions), but this year, it’s the right call.

Fireworks, dry climates and poor decisions don’t mix. I’ve seen it firsthand.

The year was 2017. I was at a friend’s house in the Columbia River Gorge east of Vancouver watching c...