Best of the New 2010: People & Ideas

Lighters aren’t toys, and lighters that look like toys aren’t safe. That’s the simple principle behind the state’s ban on novelty lighters – funny lobsters, realistic tractors, and sweet Santas that are attractive to children but also designed to produce a flame – that went into effect last month. Massachusetts was the 14th state to enact this kind of statute, according to the office of the state fire marshal, Stephen D. Coan, a key player both in getting the new law enacted and, now, enforcing it.