Dear Editor,

We hope you all are as excited to celebrate our nation’s liberation as we are this Fourth of July.

While fireworks are a beloved tradition that brings joy and excitement to our communities, they also pose significant risks if not handled with care. One of the most dangerous scenarios is smoking near fireworks. The combination of lit cigarettes and explosive materials can lead to disastrous consequences, including accidental ignitions, severe burns and even fatalities.

Fireworks are inherently volatile and require safety measures to prevent accidents. Introducing an open flame, such as a cigarette, into an environment where fireworks are present dramatically increases the risk of unintended explosions. It is not just the person smoking who is at risk but also bystanders who could be affected by an unexpected blast.

Here are some recommendations to ensure a safe and enjoyable holiday:

Designated smoking areas: Establish clearly marked smoking areas well away from where fireworks are being handled or stored.

Enhanced supervision: Ensure that responsible adults supervise fireworks displays and strictly enforce no-smoking rules in and around these areas.

For those who wish to quit smoking, you can reach out to 1-800-QUITNOW for free coaching and even nicotine patches, gums, etc., to help you on your journey.

Have a fun and safe Fourth of July, everyone!

Alanna Weidenbenner
Breathe Well Coalition