Fourth of July Fireworks Health Dangers & How to Prevent Them

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The fourth of July celebration is not complete without the grand parades and the gorgeous display of fireworks. The colors it brings make the event more alive. However, a lot of people do not take heed of the potential risk it also brings.

The Associated Press wrote that a study of 315 locations around the country has found out that fireworks can pose a health risk as it temporarily boosts levels of airborne microscopic particles, which is harmful for children and the elderly.

Between 9 p.m. to 10 p.m. on July 4, when fireworks are at its grandest display, the study says that levels of those particles would double than the average.

Fireworks may cause potential health risk through pollution, as stated by Back Country:

Air Pollution - firework smoke consists mainly of fine toxic dusts that can easily enter the lungs, making this a real threat for those with asthma or multiple chemical sensitivity (MCS)

Water Pollution - Fallout from fireworks can contaminate water supplies and residue on the ground can be carried away by rain and end up in our lakes, rivers and seas.

Noise Pollution - loud vibrations caused by firework can travel far. It can exceed up to 140 decibels and studies show that noise at 85 decibels or above can damage hearing.

Aside from pollution, a 2013 report by John R. Hall Jr. for the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) mentioned that fireworks are also responsible for accidents and injuries.

The good thing is, fireworks do not last the whole night. Reported by Newsmax, firework particles taper off overnight and would go back to normal by noon the next day. This means that as long as there is no close contact to the fireworks, anyone can still enjoy the display.

The Environmental Protection Agency reminded that children, older adults and people with heart, lung diseases and those who are sensitive to particle pollution, must enjoy the fireworks upwind or in an open space away from the fireworks.

The NFPA, together with the Alliance to Stop Consumer Fireworks also urge the public to be aware and to understand the risks and threats associated with fireworks.