Now that the smoke has cleared on Independence Day revelry and the focus shifts to the North Dakota State Fair this week (!), perhaps it is time to reflect back on the Fourth of July and the issue of fireworks inside city limits.

Of course, fireworks are unlawful inside city limits. However, every year that doesn’t really do much to slow people down from enjoying them in town. It is unrealistic to expect that Minot police have the manpower to enforce the law and cite every guilty party for a violation. Furthermore, even should there be more Minot police, there are also far, far, far more serious things for them to be doing than chasing kids around. If you haven’t noticed yet, police are on the front lines of too many youth involved in too many vastly more dangerous activities.

That said, the city is grappling with how to address the situation because some Minot residents, particularly those living with post-traumatic stress disorder, have a very hard time with fireworks exploding in town. This is entirely understandable and those in this condition deserve a world of sensitivity.

It is sensitivity and simple courtesy that might be the solution to this impasse. Since there is no law enforcement solution to the fireworks issue, perhaps instead a public information campaign is called for. Perhaps if people were just more aware that what seems like a relatively harmless infraction has real negative impact on neighbors, they might alter their behavior. Take it out of town. Create a new tradition. Indulge without the noise pollution.

No one wants to ruin Independence Day fun. Minot Daily News believes that no one wants to harm those living with PTSD. The simplest solution is awareness, common courtesy and respect for others.

Is that such a hard thing?

Maybe if Minot can show that a community can address its own challenges by coming together in human decency, without the iron hand of the state, other communities can learn something. Maybe there is a lesson to be shared here.

Wouldn’t that be something?

Editors note: A thank you to the lovely lady, who in a wonderful conversation this week, suggested a simple solution to the question of fireworks.