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Fourth of July is next week, which means there will be a lot of fireworks going off. As much as I hate to ruin people’s fun, the truth is that fireworks are hazardous both for human health and for the environment, and the sooner Americans find a safer way to celebrate, the better.
Air pollution from fireworks
A 2015 study from the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) found that fireworks cause a spike in particulate matter pollution of an average of 42%. Other studies have found increases in pollutants such as nitrogen oxides and sulfur dioxide, and even trace concentrations of heavy metals like strontium, barium and lead (which create the bright colors in firework displays). The air quality can remain at harmful levels into the next day. The Bay Area Air Quality Management District (BAAQMD) warns that smoke from fireworks can trigger asthma attacks, and recommends that children, the elderly, and those with respiratory issues or heart or lung disease, avoid exposure.
Risk of serious injury
Every year, emergency rooms are full of fireworks-related injuries. Common injuries are to the hands and face, and young adults in their 20’s have the highest rates of injury, according to the Consumer Product Safety Commission. This is a major reason why fireworks are illegal in San Mateo County, except for a couple of cities that allow “save and sane” pyrotechnics that are neither projectile nor explosive.
In a new 2023 San Mateo County rule, you can be held liable for the County’s costs to respond to violations of the County’s ban on fireworks. This includes “the cost of any medical treatment for any public safety personnel injured responding to the violation, and the cost of repairing any public safety equipment or property damage incurred in responding to the violation.”
Risk of wildfires
You probably remember when pyrotechnics from a gender reveal party sparked the massive El Dorado wildfire that burned more than 22,000 acres in San Bernardino County. Last year, fireworks set off dozens of fires across the Bay Area.
You’re scaring the dog
If we can’t care about air pollution, wildfires or our own health, can we at least care about our dogs? I have several dog-owning friends who report having to coax a terrified pooch out from under the bed when the loud booms are over. In the meantime, here are some suggestions from the American Kennel Club on keeping your dog calm during a fireworks display.
Everyone out there have a safe and happy holiday!
