This week's column:So what's the deal with July Fourth?

It's time once again for "Mr. Holiday" to answer your holiday queries. This week: Independence Day.

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Dear Mr. Holiday:
Is it true that fireworks can be dangerous?

Cautious in Connecticut

Dear Cautious:

The idea that fireworks are dangerous is what we call an "urban myth," like those rumors that everyone should be wearing seat belts and avoiding heroin. By taking a few simple precautions, we can all safely enjoy these powerful illegal explosives.

For one, you must use common sense. For instance, make sure to drink all the beer from your bottles before starting to light off bottle rockets. Or sparklers: They burn at 1,800 degrees, so before you give one to little junior, make sure to have that video camera charged up and ready to go!

It would also be helpful for you to read all the warnings on the label, presuming you read Chinese and can do so before the fuse burns down.

For the rest of this week's AT LARGE by Peter Chianca, click here.