Take precautions to reduce the harmful effects of fireworks, which are an indispensable part of celebrations such as Independence Day, which falls on the 4th of July.
Highlights:
The Fourth of July is an American staple and holiday that never goes out of style. Like any other celebration, Fireworks are bound to be an integral part of it. However, this may have some negative effects on the environment and safety.
The Fourth of July, also known as Independence Day for Americans, started in 1776. This day was declared on behalf of the separation of all thirteen colonies from British rule or governance. Even though Independence was not declared until August 2nd, 1776, Americans have created the Fourth of July tradition for over two hundred years.- Many cities in the United States are gearing up for their traditional fireworks displays for Independence Day celebrations
- The use of these fireworks releases metallic particles into the air that can have harmful consequences
- Hence, alternative options such as laser lights and drones are chosen for fire-safe celebrations
Fireworks Cause a Public Health Hazard
Chemicals like barium, copper, magnesium, potassium and strontium are used in the fireworks that cause a wide range of adverse health effects, such as premature mortality, respiratory and cardiovascular diseases, adverse pregnancy outcomes, and neurological diseases.
Chemicals like barium, copper, magnesium, potassium and strontium are used in the fireworks that cause a wide range of adverse health effects, such as premature mortality, respiratory and cardiovascular diseases, adverse pregnancy outcomes, and neurological diseases.
‘All fireworks carry potential risks of burns, blindness, and other injuries during Independence Day celebrations, but you can reduce the danger through proper planning and safety. #IndependenceDay #AirPollution #Fireworks’
On the 4th of July, Americans participate in multiple activities, the most common being large family gatherings, barbecue parties, and grandiose fireworks celebrations. As the 4th of July is a federal holiday, many Americans plan vacations to see special fireworks shows. Keep Your Independence Day Fireworks Celebration Sustainable and Safe
But the figures show that celebrations in the form of fireworks shows may have an impact on the environment and safety. The captivating and colorful fireworks shows emit around 94.3 kilotons, or over 200 pounds, of carbon dioxide emissions annually.The pollution (1✔ ✔Trusted Source
Impact of 4th of July Fireworks on Spatiotemporal PM2.5 Concentrations in California Based on the PurpleAir Sensor Network: Implications for Policy and Environmental Justice
Go to source) caused by a short firework show usually effervesces quickly, but the fireworks used for the Fourth of July celebrations may not be the same. Because fireworks for the Fourth of July operate on a more grandiose scale.
The pollution from these magnificent illuminations in the sky can not only cause pollution levels to suddenly spike – but to stay at an alarming level for several days afterward. Effects on air quality can also be affected by fireworks.
Fireworks on the Fourth of July also have the potential to impact one’s health. The smoke from fireworks contains particulate matter, such as strontium, barium, and lead, that can provoke asthma attacks and other respiratory diseases (2✔ ✔Trusted Source
Potential impact of fireworks on respiratory health
Go to source).
Fireworks have been reported to cause approximately 12,264 fires in 2021, including 2,082 structure fires, 316 vehicle fires, and 9,866 outside and other fires. These fires caused 29 civilian injuries and $59 million in direct property damage.
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Monitoring Air Quality After Fourth of July Fireworks: Study
Impact of fireworks events on air quality is researched after the U.S. celebrated the Fourth of July with dazzling fireworks displays.
Impact of fireworks events on air quality is researched after the U.S. celebrated the Fourth of July with dazzling fireworks displays.
There is a warning issued against using fireworks in the West due to increased fire risks associated with drought. Many western cities, like Flagstaff, Arizona, have banned or limited firework use for the same reasons.
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Air Pollution May Increase the Risk of Dementia
Researchers looked at 16 papers and discovered recurrent proof of a link between hazardous air particles called PM 2.5 and dementia.
Researchers looked at 16 papers and discovered recurrent proof of a link between hazardous air particles called PM 2.5 and dementia.
The shift from traditional fireworks to a laser light show (3✔ ✔Trusted Source
Your guide to Fourth of July fireworks - plus laser and drone shows - around Colorado
Go to source) was the responsible action to take due to the extreme fire risk associated with the dry and hot conditions in the northland. It is extremely important to have a safe celebration and be fire aware.
Some other cities, like Boulder, Colorado, are choosing to use drones for their festive displays. This was not an easy decision. It was based on several factors, including increased fire danger fueled by climate change.
References:
- Impact of 4th of July Fireworks on Spatiotemporal PM2.5 Concentrations in California Based on the PurpleAir Sensor Network: Implications for Policy and Environmental Justice - (https://www.mdpi.com/1660-4601/18/11/5735)
- Potential impact of fireworks on respiratory health - (https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/25378846/)
- Your guide to Fourth of July fireworks - plus laser and drone shows - around Colorado - (https://www.cpr.org/2023/06/28/colorado-free-fourth-of-july-firework-shows/)
Source-Medindia
