Valley air district urges people to go to firework shows, give up at-home shows
Lauren Jennings
San Joaquin Valley Air Pollution Control District officials are urging Valley residents to attend community-sponsored firework events on the Fourth of July, citing air pollution concerns in the midst of what could be a crazy wildfire year.
Each year, particulate matter levels spike – four to five times higher than the federal standard – from personal fireworks during the evening of July 4 .
“We are asking Valley residents to be mindful and considerate of their neighbors,” said Samir Sheikh, San Joaquin Valley Air District executive director. “There are many ways to be patriotic and celebrate our nation’s independence without lighting fireworks.”
Personal fireworks emit particulate matter, including soot, ash and metals. At-risk individuals include children, the elderly and those with existing respiratory conditions.
“This unnecessary source of air pollution compromises air quality and public health,” the district’s press release reads. “Fine particulate matter can invade the bloodstream, get deep into the lungs, and increase the risk of heart attack and stroke.”
Here are a few Fourth of July community events happening in Visalia and Tulare:
- Kiwanis Club of Tulare Fireworks Show from 6 p.m. to 10 p.m. on July 3 at the Tulare Fairgrounds (admission is $5 for those 5 and older).
- Great American Race from 8 a.m. to 11 a.m. on July 4 at Riverway Sports Park (admission is $35-$45).
- Fireworks Spectacular at 7 p.m. on July 4 at Valley Strong Ballpark (tickets start at $8).
Lauren Jennings covers education and news for the Visalia Times-Delta/Tulare Advance-Register. Follow her on Twitter @lolojennings. Get alerts and keep up on all things Tulare County for as little as $1 a month. Subscribe today.