Words by Tess Becker
Fourth of July is a day to celebrate the Independence of the United States from British rule way back in 1776. For the uninitiated, the day is celebrated with barbeques, fireworks, and family get-togethers, but there has been a lot of criticism of fireworks of late.
The celebratory explosives are dangerous, posing massive fire hazards, not very environmentally friendly, and can trigger people’s PTSD and frighten people’s animals, and as a result some US cities are planning to replace their firework showcases with drones.
Salt Lake City, Utah, tried out the alternative way of celebrating Independence Day with its first-ever drone show this past weekend.
“As temperatures rise and fire danger increases, we must be conscientious of both our air quality and the potential for wildfires,” the city’s mayor, Erin Mendenhall, said in a press release. “The summer holiday shows are a mainstay for Salt Lakers and we’re excited about adapting to new technology which will provide a safe alternative for our residents and visitors.”
Other cities like Boulder, Colorado are doing the same.
“The shift from traditional fireworks to drones was not an easy decision and based on a number of factors, including increased fire danger fueled by climate change,” the city’s government stated.
While the changes may not be for everyone they serve as a safer alternative for communities around the United States.
Happy Fourth of July everyone!
Charity check-in
At Smiley Movement, we like to elevate the work of charities across the world. Here are three charities whose causes align with the themes in this article.
I Am A Girl NGO. They work to support girls across Barbados. Find out more and support them here.
American Forests. A conservation organization focused on preserving and protecting American forests. Support them here.
Cultural Survival. They are an indigenous-led nonprofit focused on empowering indigenous Americans and helping the planet. Find out more.
