It is not hard to see why concern has been raised about the construction of a 200ft tower of highly combustible materials in the middle of densely populated area of Co Antrim.
Bonfire builders in the Craigyhill area of Larne have set out to achieve a new 'world record' by assembling the tallest ever such pyre.
A GoFundMe page has even been set up to raise £9,000 to cover the cost of Guinness World Records adjudicating on the misguided attempt.
Organisers have predictably dismissed criticism as an effort to demonise unionist culture, insisting that the community events are open to all and they have taken 'every safety precaution imaginable'.
However, there are obvious safety issues around the construction of an enormous makeshift structure in a built-up area, let alone setting the towering pyre alight.
The bonfire has been built close to a play park and sports area and near roads and housing. Such activities are a magnet for young people, and pose a danger both to bonfire builders and those gathering to watch.
In 2021 the Craigyhill bonfire collapsed in flames as a large crowd of spectators looked on. Such was the heat from the inferno that fire engines had to be hosed down.
A tragic reminder of the dangers inherent in bonfires also came last year when a man fell to his death while helping build a structure in nearby Antiville.
A bonfire is not expected to take place at that site on Eleventh Night this year.
Despite reports of legal action around that case, Mid and East Antrim Council does not appear to be intervening in the much larger Craigyhill bonfire, which has also been assembled on council land.
Any other activity on public land would be subject to strict health and safety requirements. However, every year authorities show themselves seemingly unwilling or unable to act even when genuine safety fears are raised.
While bonfires clearly remain an important part of Twelfth celebrations in many unionist areas, regulation should not been seen as an attack on anyone's culture.
It is encumbent on all political representatives to show leadership and support sensible controls at Craigyhill and all other bonfire sites to allow the tradition to be maintained in a safe environment that respects the rights of all.
