THE Christmas season is virtually here and while Guyanese usually go all out to try to make every Christmas better than the previous one, there are certain important aspects that have to be looked at during the celebrations.

While we support full-scale celebrations at this time of year, we would also like to remind of the dangers associated with certain activities during the season.

Although the Police have issued a strong statement warning against the use of squibs and firecrackers, and the penalties that follow conviction, some people have already started using these items, some very indiscriminately.

There are several other ways or activities that relate to the season in which they could participate and get that very special feeling rather than setting off squibs and firecrackers.

We do not want to tell Guyanese how they should or should not celebrate this very special season, but there are dangers in some of the activities that some indulge in under the name of Christmas.

The sick, babies and the elderly, and pets, are all affected by the sudden deafening explosions from squibs and firecrackers set off without rhyme and reason so frequently under the guise of celebrating the season.

Christmas is supposed to be all about peace on earth and goodwill to all men, not about lobbing explosions in and around homes and creating an unbearable nuisance and untold trauma.

In the past, there have been several cases of children burnt and otherwise injured in accidents associated with the use of squibs and firecrackers. Some of these cases were serious enough to warrant hospitalisation.

There were also cases of people being disfigured, some while trying to set off the devices, while others were injured when these were thrown at them for `fun'. Damage to property has also been reported.

Guyanese need to be reminded that it is an offence to be found with these items, and both seller and purchaser are liable to be charged once found with them.

Indulging in this practice can also aid criminal elements, especially at nights.

There have been cases of people mistaking and ignoring gunfire thinking it was exploding squibs and firecrackers when it was bandits attacking citizens.

This kind of confusion can delay badly needed assistance when robbers strike in communities since it would often be difficult to determine whether criminals are striking with guns or if is squibs and firecrackers going off.

While it is good for the Police to come out with statements warning the general public against the use of squibs and firecrackers, we believe that it would be better for the law enforcement agencies to embark on an education programme in which the public would be sensitised about the dangers of being involved in the activities, and the harm that could be caused to person and property.

There is a dire need for all to be responsible, to act in a civilised manner and celebrate Christmas in that peaceful and joyous way deserving of the occasion.

Its celebration of peace on earth and goodwill to all men should not be desecrated by the unthinking and uncaring.