Whether you are attending a spectacular Fourth of July celebration or a picnic with backyard fireworks, the aftermath of drifting smoke can cause breathing problems for some people, the Iowa Department of Natural Resources (DNR) reminds citizen patriots.
If the air is stagnant, fine particles can be trapped near the ground and build to unhealthy levels, so the DNR encourages sensitive individuals to stay upwind, a safe distance from fireworks smoke. People with asthma or respiratory difficulties, the elderly, children and pregnant women are most likely to suffer from inhalation.
Smoke contains fine particles and gases that can be hard on the lungs. Fine particles in the smoke of fireworks are produced from the black powder used to shoot fireworks skyward and also from the metals that produce brilliant colors, the DNR said.
Those people unable to avoid areas of dense smoke should limit their outdoor activity and contact their health care provider if they experience difficulty breathing.
An air pollution monitor in Davenport recorded unhealthy levels of fine particles after Fourth of July fireworks in 2008 and 2015. Find more information about the 2008 event and fine particle pollution on the DNR website.
Patriotic Iowans who use fireworks at home this summer should take care to property store and dispose of explosives, the DNR noted.
Unused fireworks should be kept in a cool, dry place and out of the reach of children. Never place fireworks on top of an electrical appliance, such as a refrigerator or freezer. The appliance could be damaged through extreme weather events, such as lightning or power surges, which could possibly ignite the fireworks.
Fireworks should not be put in the garbage without taking appropriate precautions because they pose a fire and explosion hazard. To dispose of unused, misfired or “dud” fireworks:
- Completely submerge fireworks in a large bucket of water and soak overnight.
- Double wrap the completely soaked fireworks in plastic wrap or two plastic bags so they do not dry out.
- Place the double-bagged fireworks in the household trash or take them to your local landfill.
- Residents can also contact their local fire department or landfill as other disposal options for fireworks may be available.
For more information about storing and disposing of fireworks, visit the DNR website.
