WHAT ARE THE HEALTH EFFECTS OF USING FIREWORKS/FIRECRACKERS?

Results of studies have shown that the levels  of suspended particulate matters (SPM), CO, NOx, hydrocarbons, SO2, increase to an unprecedented levels in air during fireworks displays. Pregnant women, children and those having a chronic asthma are most vulnerable to these exposures.

The SPM levels can cause throat, nose, eye related problems. It can lead to headaches and reduced mental acuity. It has much more severe effects in people with heart, respiratory or nervous system disorders. It can aggravate problem for people suffering from cold allergies or coughs and can also cause congestion of throat and chest.

Unwanted second noise has harmful effects as well. Standard noise level set by the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) for the ambient environment is 60 dB during daytime and 50 decibels during night time. Fireworks can be loud and can exceed 140 decibels. Noise at 85 decibels above can damage hearing. Increase in the sound levels can lead to restlessness, temporary or permanent hearing loss, high blood pressure, and sleep disturbance.

Fireworks can also cause respiratory problems such as: chronic or allergic bronchitis, bronchial asthma, sinusitis, rhinitis, pneumonia and laryngitis.