Montana Fireworks Are Ready To Go! Are You A Good Neighbor?

Montana firework stands are now open and that means you will most likely be hearing the pops and booms for the next week. I love a good firework show, don't get me wrong. BUT I also love getting sleep at night.

It's not just about keeping people up, it's about the respect for others that suffer from the sounds of fireworks. Some reasons for struggling with loud fireworks may be a bit surprising.

People: Many people suffer from PTSD for many different reasons, and whatever that reason may be, the fact is that we need to be cautious and caring toward them.

Dogs/Cats/Companion Animals: Some animals can't handle the sound of thunder. Now imagine hours of fireworks. This can cause your pets or your neighbors' pets to physically get sick with anxiety and panic attacks.

Fish: If you are choosing to light off fireworks near the water, keep in mind that fish and other animals can die from ingesting used fireworks. It's so important to clean up after yourself, plus it makes you a respectable human to not leave trash all over.

Wild Animals: We live in a state that has many different wild animals. Did you know that fireworks can cause so much fear in wild animals that the momma and babies will leave their den, putting them in danger during the nighttime hours?

Birds: At night, when you are lighting off a bunch of fireworks, you may notice dead birds in large numbers all over. This is because fireworks will literally give birds panic attacks that lead to their deaths.

Bees: We know how important bees are to our environment, and fireworks will actually cause so much disorientation that bees won't be able to get back to their hives.

I am not saying don't light off fireworks, I am just saying be respectful, don't do it all night long, and if you can do it away from your neighbor's front door, that would be wonderful. Have a safe and wonderful 4th Of July!