Responsibility not prohibition

To the editor: Personally, I believe that celebrating Independence Day with fireworks is an inalienable right. I also believe it is an affront to the people of Pennsylvania that the sale of fireworks is allowed to out of staters but their purchase is prohibited or limited to Pennsylvanians. It makes as much sense as the repeal of the motorcycle helmet law. Yes, I know all the horror stories. What about the horrific results of drunken driving? Is there a difference? Instruction of limited duration should be established for those who chose to celebrate with pyrotechnics. Upon completion, a permit would be issued, stating what types of fireworks are permissible in the celebratory area. Would everyone comply? Do all licensed drivers abide by the rules of the road? Of course some will get hurt--some will be careless. However, we are losing more and more of our freedoms. You can’t legislate total protection, but you can teach RESPONSIBILITY. Helene Kuhn Matamoras