As we approach July Fourth weekend we must remain considerate of our neighbors.
This year especially, with city and community fireworks being canceled due to COVID, one might expect an increase in random, personal firework displays set off at variable times throughout the day and night.
The unpredictable nature of fireworks and illegal firecrackers set off randomly in backyards and alleys present a grave challenge for Veterans and all those with PTSD.
While fireworks for many are celebratory, colorful, and exciting— for individuals with PTSD firework displays can raise anxiety and can bring back intense memories of gunfire, explosions, and terrifying circumstances.
Amidst COVID and the changes made to prevent the spread, we all must remain aware of how these changes impact those suffering from PTSD this year. Without preplanned, prescheduled firework displays, we can expect an increase in at-home-displays, which will make it harder predict or plan for the impact of these unexpected explosions on vulnerable individuals.
Thus, we as neighbors must remain aware and cognizant of our actions this Fourth.
If you live in a state where fireworks are legal and plan on having a firework display on your property, here are a few things you can do to protect the wellbeing of family, friends, and neighbors.
1. Ask your neighbors about their comfort and experience with fireworks to learn if there are any foreseeable challenges that need to be managed.
2. Alert your neighbors of the time and place that you will be setting off your firework display as this will allow those with PTSD to mentally and physically prepare for the loud noises and prevent being “caught off guard” which can exacerbate symptoms.
3. If a neighbor has a particularly strong reaction to fireworks, consider asking if it would be okay to check in with them right before and after the display to help or provide any additional support.
4. Try to have some things ready to help people cope such as noise canceling headphones, a calming soundtrack, sunglasses to prevent the intensity of the color, a helpful phone app to pace breathing, a blanket and chair to help one feel secure and grounded, etc.
While the celebrations this Fourth will surely go on, it is important that we are mindful and respectful in the ways in which we choose to celebrate this year.
With a few easy steps, you can strive to mitigate risk and help to support the wellbeing of all those in your family and your community this holiday!