We, the undersigned petitioners, urge the City Council of Fort Bragg, California to replace the fireworks show during the annual 4th of July celebration—possibly with a drone light show. The harmful effects of conventional fireworks are well documented and include: 

• Wildlife and domestic animals: Loud explosive noise can cause fear, disorientation, escape behavior, and disruption. 
• People: Fireworks can be particularly distressing for veterans and others with trauma histories. The VA specifically identifies fireworks as potential trauma reminders for people who have experienced combat, explosions, fires, or gun violence. 
• Fire: Mendocino County warns that fireworks pose a serious wildfire threat, and has made non-professional fireworks illegal. Although professional fireworks companies take precautions, that does not fully preclude all fire danger.
• Environment: Fireworks release fine particulate pollution and chemical compounds, including perchlorate and metals, that can enter the air, soil, and water. Research reviewed by the EPA identifies fireworks as an important source of environmental perchlorate contamination.