The other day, we were in line at a fast food restaurant when we saw a motorist throw cigarette butt out of his car window.

In times of average rainfall, that action would be considered in poor taste as it shows a general disregard for the aesthetics of the community, but in the dry times we've been experiencing, that's a dangerous and inexcusable action.

The driver drove off so quickly that we didn't get his license plate number, but if we had, we'd have been tempted to run it in this editorial today.

It's bad enough that many drivers show a general lack of class and concern for their neighbors by throwing trash out of their car windows, but doing so in this climate shows a complete lack of brains.

Just a spark from a match or a cigarette could cause part of our community to go up in flames, just like the terrible fires in Colorado.

If you don't believe us, look at the charred remains caused by brush fires along Interstate 20 near the Almon Road exit.
The fire department kept the blaze under control, but the damage could have been worse.

If you need to smoke, that's your business, but it becomes everybody's business when you don't carefully distinguish or destroy the remains of your cigarette. Please dispose of cigarettes the proper way and keep Newton County safe and beautiful.