Fireworks, smoke and asthma

 

Summer has flown by and I realized that Independence Day is just around the corner. That means wearing anything I can find that is red, white or blue. Then going to the annual parade, and watching fireworks.

Normally, we just watch aerial fireworks from a nearby city celebration. We found a great spot overlooking the valley, and we can see the fireworks perfectly.  But since we are a few miles away, we don't have to worry about the smoke. 

This year, we moved into a new neighborhood. The new neighbors were telling us about an annual  4th of July tradition. They hold a neighborhood BBQ, parade for the kiddos, and end the night with a "Cul de sac of Fire."

Hhhmm. I was okay until they mentioned fireworks. They make me VERY worried. Smoke from fireworks landed Son #2 in ICU when he was 8 years old, and it was one VERY scary time for us. 

So, I am very worried about fireworks and smoke. Not only do I worry about Son #2, but I also have 2 other children with asthma (and I also have asthma.) So we could all have an asthma attack, ER visit or hospitalization.

In fact, Son #2 is older now, but was just saying that he dreads 4th of July and the fireworks because he struggles to breath for several days (because it takes that long for the air to clear out.) Our street is usually so smoky from fireworks that we can hardly see the house across the street!

I have asthma attacks EVERY time I try to go outside to watch the neighborhood fireworks, so with the Cul de sac of Fire, I will be watching from inside my house! (With all of the doors and windows closed!) 

The American College of  Allergy, Asthma & Immunology (ACAAI) says:

"Fireworks and campfires are a staple of the 4th of July, but smoke can cause asthma symptoms to flare. Allergists recommend keeping your distance from campfires – and if you have to be near one, sit upwind if possible. If you can’t resist the fireworks, consider wearing a NIOSH N95 rated filter mask to keep smoke out of your lungs, and always carry your reliever inhaler."

 If you are going to be around fireworks on 4th of July, be careful! Keep your distance (or watch them from a building!) and make sure you have your inhaler or nebulizer handy!