What initially started as a personal horror has grown into a crusade for a safer, quiet, and responsible celebration. Every year, countless Americans including my own community members, including veterans and those suffering from post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), are traumatized by the loud explosions and bright flashes of fireworks. Not to mention the endless number of pets and wildlife forced into a state of terror.

Fireworks are much more than a noise nuisance. They pose a real threat to the mental well-being of millions of people and animals. According to the U.S. Department of Veteran Affairs, about 8 million adults suffer from PTSD in a given year. Moreover, the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA) reveals that loud noises, like that of fireworks, can evoke fear and anxiety responses in animals.

Aside from this, the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) reports that fireworks start an average of 18,500 fires per year, leading to countless personal and public property damage. Moreover, the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) noted that fireworks were involved in an estimated 10,000 injuries treated in U.S. hospital emergency departments during 2019. Such startling statistics underline the serious harm that fireworks inflict on our society, both mentally and physically.

A nationwide ban on fireworks is an urgent call to reduce distress, injury, and trauma experienced by our people and animals every year. It is time we celebrate festivities responsibly, respecting every citizen's right to peace and safety. Please, sign this petition for a nationwide ban on fireworks in the United States.