More than 190 comments on the Nextdoor app have been made by angry residents who had their lives disrupted over the holiday by the illegal use of fireworks, many designed to sound like cannon fire. The noise continued 24/7, Friday through Monday. My little dog spent most of that time under the bed.
Pro-fireworks comments suggested that people “just get over it and stop whining,” that it is a free country, and that somehow (since Municipal Code 14.70 is not enforced) they have a right to shoot them off. These folks dismissed comments that were posted by those concerned about pets that had to be drugged, military vets suffering from post-traumatic stress disorder, children with disabilities, those who get up early for work and others concerned about fire hazards or injuries.
Since the municipal ban seems to be difficult to enforce, I propose that the state Legislature take up a bill restricting the sale of fireworks and hours of use throughout the state. The cities of Alaska can still put on contained, safe fireworks displays. Celebrations should be enjoyable for all, not just for those who believe that holidays are for their personal entertainment, others be damned.
Lyn Franks
Anchorage
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