Daily Herald editorial

For all the fun ahead this weekend, it’s worth remembering that the Fourth of July holiday is also a time for an abundance of caution.

For those who plan to travel, it’s a good time to be alert for bad behavior among other drivers. The large number of vehicles on the road presents a hazard in itself, but one that is made worse by the air of celebration that occasionally — OK, more than occasionally — causes some to have a few too many cool summer alcoholic beverages. And sometimes those people get behind the wheel, presenting a hazard to themselves and others.

Alcohol has, sadly, also played a role in all sorts of recreational vehicle accidents over the years — from boats to ATVs. And ATVs, in particular, have become a source of summer deaths — by the middle of last summer, 14 people had died on ATVs in Minnesota. Caution, obviously, is needed.

There’s no reason not to enjoy the long weekend and the many celebrations. There is every reason to be careful about it.