Keep Fourth safe - leave fireworks to the professionals

It's that magical time of the year again, the period from the end of June when school has let out and the days seem like they last forever-until July Fourth when Americans celebrate their national birthday party until well after dark.

Summer has never been more fun.

This Tuesday's Fourth of July promises to be as big and bold as ever. Independence Day holds a special place among U.S. holidays, and is always accompanied by some of the best community events of the year.

Next week, that's exactly what local residents will get, and they won't even have to wait until dawn's early light for the excitement to begin.

The Pleasant Valley Lions Club has hosted for years what seems like the granddaddy of the local pyrotechnic shows. The fireworks begin like clockwork at 9 p.m. at Freedom Park right next door to the Camarillo Airport.

If you haven't seen the popular Camarillo show, don't wait another year. Be sure to arrive early, as about 10,000 guests are expected to attend the family event.

During this fun holiday, please let the professionals handle the fireworks. Fire and health officials continue to see the damage-both to houses and to humans-that occurs at too many amateur fireworks shows.

Dr. Marty Schneider, a Camarillo-based optometrist, said approximately 6,400 Americans are treated each year for fireworks-related injuries-more than a 1,000 of which are eye injuries.

What's scarier is that children under 16 account for 60 percent of those eye wounds.

Experts say the most dangerous fireworks are bottle rockets, firecrackers and sparklers.

Camarillo residents also should know that fireworks of any kind are illegal in the city.

Enjoy this year's Fourth of July, but while doing so, please be sure to do it in a safe manner. Leave the pyrotechnics to the experts to ensure the holiday remains a fun one.