During the summer and particularly around the Fourth of July holiday, fireworks are a popular and enjoyable activity for many people. In Linn County, residents may notice an increase in the use of fireworks in their neighborhoods and communities. While fireworks are a traditional part of summer celebrations, it is important to consider how they can affect air quality and health.
Dr. Pramod Dwivedi, the Director of Linn County Public Health, acknowledges that fireworks are a common feature of summer festivities. He encourages residents to participate in fireworks displays safely to avoid any negative health effects and recommends staying informed about air quality alerts, especially if poor air quality is expected.
It is crucial to protect sensitive populations, such as those with respiratory conditions, the elderly, and children, during fireworks displays. The smoke produced by fireworks can be dense and potentially harmful to individuals with respiratory issues. To minimize exposure to harmful emissions, individuals should avoid areas with dense smoke around fireworks launch sites and watch displays from a safe distance.
For those who have asthma or are sensitive to poor air quality, viewing fireworks from a safe distance is recommended. Additionally, using “low-smoke” alternatives for fireworks can help reduce the amount of smoke and toxins released into the air. Linn County Public Health’s Air Quality branch will continue monitoring air quality levels during the Fourth of July holiday due to the potential impact of firework displays.
Residents can sign up for air quality alerts online and access the Air Quality Index (AQI) and other air quality data at any time through AirNow.gov. By taking precautions and staying informed about air quality, individuals can enjoy fireworks displays in a safe and responsible manner.