A local environmental group is calling for a ban on fireworks across Haliburton County. Susan Hay is the President of Eh! Environmental Haliburton and a retired registered nurse. Hay presented what she says are the unintended and harmful consequences of the festive explosives.
“Not only are they a nuisance to people who love peace and quiet, but they are also a health hazard for humans, wildlife, and for the environment,” says Hay who lives in Dysart with her husband. “They are toxic. They put aquatic health at risk. They cause extreme stress in birds, wildlife, and pets, reduce the quality of life for people who value peace and quiet and they add to greenhouse gas emissions,” she adds.
During her presentation, she suggested the county look at a number of enforcement options to reduce or eliminate fireworks use. “I believe that it’s time we make choices that don’t harm our environment. The first, and my preference, would be to ban them and their sale in the county altogether. However, I realize that at this late date, it may not be possible but may be considered for next year.” Hay adds a second option would be to allow only silent fireworks and a third one is to at least ask people not to set off in May when birds and animals are at their most vulnerable. “What I would like you to consider in the short-term is to put a notice in the local papers or local radio stations in addition to your social media channels, asking that people consider other options that are not harmful to birds, animals, fish, and human beings.”
Council talked for a few minutes about what they could do, and Warden Liz Danielson says ultimately each member municipality can make their own decision. “That’s something that each one of our members can take their respective councils to have a discussion about. [A ban] can’t be done this year so we will hopefully see there is some action for next year.”