Dear Gibsons Mayor and Council,,
Given the hiatus of the annual Sea Cavalcade celebrations, this is a perfect opportunity to rethink the use of traditional fireworks. While the visual displays are fantastic, the smoke and noise pollution are not.
Fireworks release large quantities of harmful particulate matter into the air along with potentially toxic metals. If the Ventilation Index is poor, these pollutants do not readily disperse such as was seen in Diwali celebrations in Delhi or recent Guy Fawkes events in the UK. On January 1st of this year, residents of Pierce County, Washington weren't allowed to use their wood stoves during the day because the fireworks and bonfires from New Year's eve celebrations the night before created too much air pollution. Then there is also the debris left behind to consider.
Environmental articles provide numerous references and recommend further study into the detrimental health impacts of fireworks. This literature review concludes "We recommend that susceptible individuals, mainly patients suffering from respiratory conditions, should avoid heavy exposure so as to avoid the possibility of exacerbation of their illness. Increasing awareness among the high-risk groups should decrease morbidity and the number of unscheduled health care visits and hospitalizations."
Birds are particularly sensitive to smoke pollution and the loud bangs may also cause them to die of fright. The Globe and Mail article as well as the CBC one have links that discuss the devastation and confusion we cause to our wild neighbors and the alternatives that are available. Last year, Banff switched to a quieter pyrotechnic display in consideration of the wildlife.
Last year, conditions were such that some residents could hear the explosions at their homes 2.8km away. Every Halloween or other holiday when fireworks are used, there are multiple postings on community Facebook pages from people whose pets have gone missing or others who have found terrified dogs running down the road and wish to see them home safely.
We ask that steps are taken to move to alternatives such as silent special-effect pyrotechnics and opt for a more environmentally friendly version out of consideration for all living creatures.
Sincerely,
Community of the Town of Gibsons, BC
