Keep restraints on backyard fireworks

House Bill 226 is being considered by the Ohio General Assembly and, if passed, could make Ohio one of the most liberal of all states allowing backyard fireworks.

Backyard fireworks are dangerous. With more states lifting their fireworks bans, injuries have increased dramatically. In 2015 11,900 people were treated in emergency departments for fireworksrelated injuries — the highest number of injuries reported in the past 18 years. Half of those injured were innocent bystanders. Injuries to children under the age of 15 accounted for 26 percent of the estimated firework-related injuries.

Fireworks also cause over 17,000 fires nationwide each year and tens of millions of dollars in damage. One fire caused by fireworks resulted in an elderly couple being burned to death in their home in Rome Township, Ohio.

Prevent Blindness is opposed to policies that support consumer use of backyard fireworks. Data supports that there are no inherently safe backyard fireworks and that there is no safe way for consumers to use fireworks.

Fortunately, Ohio is still among the states that ban discharge of backyard fireworks. In addition to the many health-care and fire-safety groups that oppose fireworks legalization, other opponents are animal advocates that report that dog shelters are overrun around the Fourth of July with dogs that have been startled by fireworks discharges and run off.

Farmers similarly express concerns as fireworks can startle cattle and other livestock or cause damage to crops. Veterans suffering from PTSD endure symptoms and stress brought on by fireworks discharge.

The Fourth of July can still be fun without backyard fireworks or sparklers. By only attending fireworks shows run by licensed professionals, and being vigilant, we can celebrate our nation’s birthday with family and friends, not in the emergency room.

Sherill K. Williams President, chief executive officer Prevent Blindness, Ohio Affiliate Columbus