We lost my previous home from a fire and don't wish to lose my current home in Gresham to one caused by fireworks, and the fear that it could happen again is a constant weight on our shoulders. In Gresham, Oregon, where we currently reside, each year that firework season rolls around, we find ourselves filled with the anxiety that our home might be on the line once more. This is not an unfounded fear. My neighborhood is home to many others who face similar anxieties due to various chronic illnesses, PTSD, trauma-induced anxiety, combat veterans, and children with autism. For us, the loud, unexpected explosions are more than just a nuisance; they disrupt our lives, aggravate our conditions, and rob us of peace.

The use of fireworks is not merely an inconvenience—it poses a legitimate danger to both our community's well-being and the environment. Fireworks are responsible for numerous fire outbreaks, injuries, and disturbances to wildlife, as well as our beloved pets, who cannot comprehend the sudden, terrifying bursts of sound and light. According to the National Fire Protection Association, fireworks cause over 19,500 fires and $105 million of property damage annually in the United States alone.

Moreover, Gresham, much like many other regions in Oregon, faces dry seasons where the risk of fires becomes even greater. In such conditions, the casual use of fireworks can easily escalate into devastating wildfires, putting not just properties but lives at risk. It's time that we take a stand and see to it that Gresham becomes a place where community safety is prioritized, and preventative measures are taken against such avoidable tragedies.

We call on the local government and law enforcement to ban all fireworks in Gresham, Oregon, irrespective of the time of year. The enforcement of this ban must be strict and effective to ensure compliance and safeguard our homes, families, and natural surroundings. By signing this petition, you are supporting a safer environment and a community that values the well-being and peace of its residents over momentary entertainment.

Sign this petition to protect our loved ones, homes, and cherished environment from the avoidable harms posed by fireworks. Let's act now to make Gresham a safer, more peaceful place for everyone. Together, we can influence change and ensure our community's safety.