Falls fireworks annoying and unnecessary

I know this is a tourist-driven town, but at some point there must be some common sense prevailing in those people who make the decision to blast explosives (because that is what they are) over the Falls’ gorge area.

The noise resonates so loudly that surely the integrity of the escarpment rocks must shift and loosen from this nightly event. Has anyone really thought about the impact the fireworks are having on the water, air and migratory birds that used to live in the Falls area.

In addition, the chemicals in the aftersmoke hang over the city and dust our homes and cars with an unpleasant coating of ash. The 10 p.m. banging is so incredibly disruptive to the citizens of Niagara. Everyone complains about it but no one is doing anything to stop this very annoying nightly issue.

I live at the other end of town and know the fireworks are happening because the noise reverberates throughout my house and dogs in the neighbourhood begin barking. As Niagara Falls residents we should be given the opportunity to voice our opinion regarding this nightly ritual.

Now, there is approval for an international fireworks competition in November. Hearing fireworks on a nightly basis has been bad enough, but now we need to endure more noise and air pollution during the competition.

I am worried about the health impact that the fallout chemicals will have on Niagara residents.

Niagara Parks Commission and those who approved ongoing fireworks displays should be willing to negotiate and consult with Niagara citizens on this issue. Remember this: tourists leave the area; Niagara residents stay. We are the ones who have to live with the side-effects of this very unnatural and very unnecessary loud spectacle.

Annie E. Thompson

Niagara Falls