Perpetual Firecracker Ban Needs Serious Work

The Issue

Firecrackers are a popular way to celebrate holidays and special occasions. But their use can also be dangerous, leading to injuries and even death. In an effort to reduce these risks, many cities and towns have banned the use of firecrackers.

However, these bans have been met with mixed reactions. Some people support the bans, arguing that they are necessary to protect public safety. Others oppose the bans, arguing that they infringe on personal freedom and do not effectively address the problem of firecracker-related injuries.

The Arguments for a Ban

There are several arguments in favor of a perpetual firecracker ban. First, firecrackers can be dangerous. They can cause burns, eye injuries, and even death. In 2019, there were an estimated 15,600 fireworks-related injuries in the United States. Of these, 12 were fatal.

Second, firecrackers can be a nuisance. They can be loud and disruptive, and they can also create litter. This can be a problem for people who live in close proximity to areas where firecrackers are used.

Third, firecrackers can be a fire hazard. They can start fires, especially if they are used in dry conditions. In 2018, fireworks caused an estimated 19,000 fires in the United States. These fires caused an estimated $114 million in property damage.

The Arguments Against a Ban

There are also several arguments against a perpetual firecracker ban. First, a ban would infringe on personal freedom. Many people enjoy using firecrackers, and they believe that they should be allowed to do so without government interference.

Second, a ban would not effectively address the problem of firecracker-related injuries. People who are determined to use firecrackers will find ways to do so, even if they are illegal. This could lead to more injuries, as people are more likely to take risks when they are breaking the law.

Third, a ban would be difficult to enforce. It would be difficult to police the use of firecrackers, and it would be even more difficult to prosecute people who violate the ban. This could lead to a situation where the ban is simply ignored, and people continue to use firecrackers with impunity.

Conclusion

The debate over a perpetual firecracker ban is a complex one with no easy answers. There are valid arguments on both sides of the issue. Ultimately, the decision of whether or not to ban firecrackers is a matter of public policy that must be made by each individual community.