Fireworks or pyrotechnics are used heavily to this day in many places around the world to celebrate various events. People have them associated with fan and parties, so they are not very open on hearing that they are bad for our health. Fireworks elevate air levels of particulate matter with several metallic components and gases during their explosion. Studies show that hospital admissions with respiratory issues increase during similar events all around the world.

The color of the fireworks is subject to the metals they mix, and while these metals heat from the explosive materials, they produce various color hues.

The list of the chemicals that are used is very long. I advice you to check wikipedia’s page here.

Studies have shown that the levels of particulate matter, carbon monoxide, nitrogen oxides, hydrocarbons, and sulfur dioxide increase rapidly during fireworks displays. People with already health problems are advised to stay away from those sources.

Although doctors and the media mention pregnant women, children, COPD, and asthma patients as the people that should take care of, I believe everyone should avoid exposure to air pollution. There is no safe level of pollution.

The PM levels can cause throat, nose, eye related problems. It can aggravate the problem in people with heart, respiratory or nervous system disorders. Fireworks can also cause severe respiratory problems like chronic or allergic bronchitis, bronchial asthma, sinusitis, rhinitis, pneumonia, and laryngitis.

Don’t let me start on noise and the harmful effects it has on wildlife and pets. Additionally, the standard noise level set by the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) for the ambient environment is 50 dB at night. Fireworks can be loud and can exceed 140 dB. Noise at 85 dB above can damage hearing.

All in all, it’s fantastic to celebrate a holiday with friends and family. However, fireworks are bad news for your lungs, brain, heart, and many more human organs.