Could Fireworks Cause Health Risks?
Member Center:
The 4th of July is fast approaching, and many of us are planning to watch the big displays, but lookout. These colorful shows can negatively affect your health.
It's the brighter, smokier and more colorful ones people need to be concerned about.
Last year, on the 4th of July, a special monitor in Davenport, Iowa recorded high levels of firework gas and metal in the air. These levels were so high that it was considered unsafe to breath.
Because fireworks are getting bigger and better this year, these levels could rise and cause health problems for asthmatics and the elderly.
Dr. Joe Liewer of Mercy Medical Center says, "[Firework particulates] can trigger difficulties with asthma or difficulties breathing if they're exposed to smoke or other particles that are close to the areas where the fireworks are being ignited."
Fine pieces of metal and chemicals give fireworks their sound and color. When these emissions get trapped near the ground, they can build up and basically, cause a cloud of unhealthy air.
The Department of Natural Resources advises people to maintain their distance with firework displays. Especially the loud, bright and smokey ones.
A rule of thumb to remember is, the prettier the display, the further away you should stay.
