Nothing evokes the joy of Independence Day like fireworks — the myriad colors, bright flashes, booming cacophony and wafting aroma of spent gunpowder all ring festive bells of nostalgia and patriotism.
While professional fireworks displays form the cornerstone of many planned public events during the Fourth of July weekend, the increasing use of store-bought consumer fireworks raises a variety of community concerns.
Officials, experts and advocates are concerned about the health and safety of combat veterans and others suffering from post-traumatic stress disorder; about the effects of ground-level fireworks on air quality and public health; about the health of family pets, especially some dogs; and about the dangers posed to life and limb when amateurs play with dangerous explosives.
