The Fourth of July is known all across America for being celebrated with fireworks. For me and many others living with hyperacusis, the Fourth of July is one of the most painful days of the year due to the noise. Every year since I was 9 my mom would take me to my grandma’s house on the Fourth of July, as she has an underground basement and doesn’t live near any major firework display locations. Even from underground with hearing protection the fireworks cause me pounding pain, which lingers after the fireworks are over.
Fireworks are 150-175db, which is more than twice as loud as the OSHA guidelines for safe noise levels. Fireworks are not an essential part of life, and silent fireworks have been invented, although they are currently not being mass produced. Those with hyperacusis suffer intense physical pain from the noise of fireworks, it is literally a form of torture for us. Imagine being beaten in the head and ears and the pain lingering like an injury, that is what fireworks are like for those with hyperacusis. Fireworks are also bad for the environment as they release a lot of toxins and chemicals into the air, they also scare farm animals and wildlife. Despite all of the harmful effects to both people and nature, fireworks continue to be a major way people celebrate special occasions.
It is illegal to beat a person up or give them electric shocks for fun, well that is what people are doing unknowing to those with hyperacusis, when they set off fireworks. Although there are laws in some states that make setting off private fireworks illegal, these laws are rarely enforced especially on the Fourth of July. Given that fireworks have no real value other than being a source of entertainment, and actually physically harm some people, there needs to be a ban on fireworks that make noise.
Hyperacusis Awareness: Sound Sensitivity Treatment 