Mailbag:

On Tuesday columnist Steve Smith addressed the fireworks issue (“Play it safe with fireworks”) and, in doing so, presented a list to the readers of acceptable and unacceptable behavior when using safe and sane fireworks — the only kind that are legal to discharge in our city.

Unfortunately, there was a major gaffe in Smith’s commentary. He said the following: “Only persons older than 12 should be allowed to handle sparklers of any type.”

OK, except the city of Costa Mesa specifically forbids any type of sparkler to be fired off in our city. The city issued a press release Monday that said, in part: “Only fireworks classified as safe and sane by the state fire marshal can be discharged within city boundaries.

“Sparklers of any sort are prohibited. Fireworks can only be discharged on the Fourth of July between the hours of 4 p.m. and 10 p.m. You must be at least 18 years of age to discharge fireworks. It is illegal to throw, toss, project or position fireworks to come in contact with another person’s body, private property or real property.

“Possession, use or sale of even one illegal firework or illegal use of just one safe and sane firework is a violation of the city’s Municipal Code. Violators will be cited and fined up to $500.”

It is well known that I’m not a supporter of fireworks in our city. To me, the specter of an injured child makes the risk unacceptable. However, I do accept the fact that I’m a member of a very small minority who feels that way, so am left only to hope that those of you who choose to celebrate our Independence Day with fireworks do so responsibly, safely and within the constrictions our laws.

I hope you all have a very safe and sane Fourth of July. And will someone please station himself at Smith’s house, just in case he melts another trash can this year?

GEOFF WEST

Costa Mesa

Saying no thanks to being called ‘ma’am’

Thank you, Jeanne O’Shea (“DeVore vs. Boxer,” Orange County Register, June 24).

It’s nice to know I’m not the only one who hates being addressed as ma’am! Personally, I have requested that that term not be used on me on many occasions.

In the military, the retorts — Yes, sir! and yes, ma’am! — are usually barked out in response to an officer’s command and are not intended to reflect respect or kindness, just compliance to an order.

I, for one, never use the term sir — except on one occasion. If a male (of any age) should open a door or do some other kind, thoughtful act on my behalf, my response is “Thank you, kind sir.”

In that case, sir is intended to be complimentary.

BERENICE MALTBY

Newport Beach