On each celebration involving fireworks in Utah, multiple combat veterans relive the traumatic scenes of the battlefields. As someone who frequently interacts with these heroes, I've felt their fear and seen the anxiety in their eyes each time fireworks are set off. It is not just the veterans - our animals also suffer immensely from the loud noise and bright flashes.

Research shows that up to 20% of military veterans who served in Iraq or Afghanistan suffer from Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), and loud noises like fireworks can trigger painful reactions (U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs). For our animals, studies indicate that at least 45% of dogs show signs of fear when they hear loud noises (American Veterinary Medical Association).

Considering these alarming figures, we must take concrete action. We propose an absolute ban on the use of personally purchased fireworks in Utah, thereby reducing the mental and emotional trauma on our veterans and beloved pets. It's a sacrifice that we should willingly make to ensure the tranquility of those who have served us and the creatures who cannot voice their distress.

Every year children are blinded or horribly disfigured by fireworks. Some lose their hands. 

Join us in our fight for a more peaceful and compassionate Utah. Please sign this petition to stop the trauma caused by fireworks.