3 Good Reasons to Ban Fireworks in the U.S.
I am a teacher, writer, animal lover and outdoor enthusiast.
Fireworks are harmful to people, animals, and the environment.
Pixabay l modified
3 Reasons Fireworks Should Be Banned
- They Cause Death and Injuries
- They Frighten Pets
- They're Bad for the Environment
A National Holiday
July 4 is Independence Day in the United States. It’s the day Americans celebrate the freedom they obtained from the British monarchy on the same day in 1776, and their declaration as thirteen united and independent states.
Various social activities, such as picnics and parades, take place on this holiday. However, fireworks are the hallmark of Independence Day. Americans gather after dark at parks or other public locations to watch these marvelous displays of lights in the sky.
Many people are unaware of the harmful effects of firecrackers. Indeed, more damage is done on July 4 in America than on most other days of the year.
1. Fireworks Cause Death and Injuries
Do you know that firecrackers can burn at temperatures as high as 2,000° F?
The National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) reports that every July 4, thousands of people, mostly children and teens, are hurt while using fireworks. These injuries sometimes result in death.
Fireworks also cause a ton of collateral damage on property.
Facts About Firecrackers
- There are approximately 14,000 fireworks shows in the United States on July 4 every year.
- Fireworks cause an estimated 18,500 fires per year, costing an annual average of $43 million in property damage.
- In 2019 alone, hospital emergency rooms in the United States treated an estimated 10,000 people for fireworks-related injuries.
- Children younger than age 15 accounted for 29% of those hurt by firecrackers in 2021.
Yearly Fireworks-Related Estimated Injuries in the U.S.
| Year | Estimated Injuries |
|---|---|
2021 | 11,500 |
2020 | 15,600 |
2019 | 10,000 |
2018 | 9.100 |
2017 | 12,900 |
2016 | 11,100 |
2015 | 11,900 |
2014 | 10,500 |
2013 | 11,400 |
Sparklers alone account for more than 25% of fireworks-related emergency room visits.
Pixabay
Percentage of Fireworks-Related Injuries By Age Group in 2021
| Age 0-4 | Age 5-14 | Age 15-24 | Age 25-44 | Age 45-64 | Age 65+ |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
9% | 20% | 20% | 31% | 16% | 4% |
On the 4th of July, Americans light about 175 million pounds of fireworks, which is equivalent to about 100,000 lightening bolts.
Every year around July 4 all across America, animal rescue shelters are filled with runaway pets that panic and escape their owners because of the loud sounds of fireworks. Others are never found.
Pixabay
Read More From Soapboxie
2. They Frighten Pets
Every year on and around July 4, animal shelters across America receive an increase in calls concerning pets who have ingested fireworks. It's usually dogs who will eat them out of mere curiosity. Unlike cats, some canines will consume just about anything!
Around Independence Day, animal shelters also receive a hike in the number of animals that arrive at their facilities. This is because our furry friends are frightened by the loud sounds the fireworks make. They panic and escape from their owners.
Unfortunately, many of these terrified pets never make it to a shelter and are never found.
Tips to Keep Your Pet Safe During July 4
- Keep your pet indoors during July 4 celebrations, including firework displays.
- Play soothing music or turn on a sound machine.
- Keep your pet in a room without windows.
- Provide your pet with a cozy place to hide so that he feels safe.
- Try an anxiety vest or a snug fitting t-shirt.
- Make sure your pet always wears an ID tag with your updated contact information, and/or has a microchip.
It's always best to keep your pets safe at home during all July 4 activities! The loud sounds are difficult enough for them to have to deal with. Remaining in their familiar environment will give them some sense of safety and reassurance.
Making and using fireworks destroys our environment.
Pixabay
3. They Harm the Environment
Do you know that many of the raw materials used to make fireworks are mined from mountains, which results in the destruction of forests and wildlife habitats?
The little particles that fall to the ground during fireworks displays contain toxic chemicals, many of which don't fully decompose. This means that they linger in our environment—our soil and water systems—which is harmful to humans and animals they come in contact with.
The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has linked exposure to toxic chemicals to many health problems.
Health Conditions Related to Inhaling Toxins in Our Environment
- coughing
- wheezing
- throat, nose and eye related problems
- asthma attacks
- shortness of breath
- headaches
People particularly susceptible to these adverse affects are those with heart and respiratory conditions and nervous system disorders.
Banning fireworks doesn't mean we can't celebrate and have fun on July 4!
Pixabay
Conclusion
Banning fireworks doesn't mean Americans can't celebrate their Independence Day on July 4 every year. Sure we can. We can continue the picnics, barbecues and fun. Just leave out the firecrackers. The profound and long-lasting negative impact they cause is far greater than the temporary enjoyment they offer.
Fireworks are a waste of consumer money. They are harmful to people, pets and our environment.
Happy Fourth of July!
Fireworks Injuries
References
Fact Retriever: Interesting Facts for the Curious Mind
NFPA (National Fire Protection Association)
United States Consumer Product Safety Commission 2021
This content reflects the personal opinions of the author. It is accurate and true to the best of the author’s knowledge and should not be substituted for impartial fact or advice in legal, political, or personal matters.
© 2019 Madeleine Clays
