Replace the Toxic Tradition of Fireworks with Thoughtful, Responsible Alternatives

"Some of America’s favorite Independence Day #fireworks emit lead, copper, and other toxins, a new study suggests. These metals, which are used to give fireworks their vibrant color, also damage human cells and animal lungs. Led by researchers at NYU Grossman School of Medicine, the study showed harmful levels of lead in 2 of 12 types of commercially available fireworks sampled. “'While many are careful to protect themselves from injury from explosions, our results suggest that inhaling firework smoke may cause longer-term damage—a risk that has been largely ignored,' says study senior author Terry Gordon, PhD, a professor in the Dept. of Medicine and a member of the Division of Environmental Medicine. "Dr. Gordon and his team also analyzed 14 years’ worth of air quality samples taken at dozens of sites across the United States by the Environmental Protection Agency (#EPA) throughout each year. They found that levels of #toxic #metals were higher in samples taken near Independence Day and New Year’s Eve celebrations than at any other time of the year. Along with lead, titanium, strontium, and copper are commonly found in fireworks. “'Although people are only exposed to these substances for a short time each year, they are much more toxic than the pollutants we breathe every day,' says Dr. Gordon."

* * * * Months ago I wrote to #SouthwestFireworks, the vendor for my #Arizona town's #July4 celebration, and asked them several questions about their product including the chemical composition, the warning label verbiage, and where their products were manufactured. They promptly replied, stating that they were "curious about the reasons for your inquiry" as they "never had anyone ask these questions before," and asked me to reply so they could "answer your questions as best as possible." When I did--letting them know that I am a concerned, taxpaying resident--Southwest Fireworks of #Scottsdale went silent, ignoring my repeated efforts. Pres. Dan Nelson also ignored my query. After months of ignoring the town's efforts to have my questions answered, they finally responded by saying that they are a private company and would not provide this information. I think we know why. Fireworks may be "tradition," but the country has had many traditions that were thankfully and justifiably changed/ended over time. "Patriotism" is not fireworks, which were invented in China and mostly manufactured there for U.S. use. #Patriotism is also not exploding toxic chemicals into our air that eventually end up in our lungs and can cause severe illness particularly for seniors, children, those with respiratory and cardiovascular ailments, and the immunocompromised. And we know the trauma it creates for domestic #pets and #wildlife. Do you own or operate responsible, thoughtful, respectful alternative entertainment to fireworks, e.g., #drones? Please message me. #environment #health #chemicals #children

(Blog post by Don Scott)