CDA: Turn volume down

Fireworks in the Coeur d’Alene area have gone WAY overboard! It’s hard to believe that our right to enjoy peace and quiet in our neighborhoods can be invaded suddenly by shockingly loud bursts of noise and vibrations from fireworks. It seems fireworks have become all too common around the lake and that it’s alright to have private, unannounced displays at any time — for weddings, parties, company celebrations or any other excuse! Most of us are aware of how disturbing this is to our domestic pets, so, what kind of reaction must wildlife have to these frightening, unescapable explosions of light and percussion?

We must think beyond our selfish wants and acknowledge that these displays invade the private space of every living being within miles of the source. How can the wants of a few be allowed to affect so many?! Aren’t there laws that control this? If so, why aren’t they enforced, and if not, we need to create them!

It’s expected that we celebrate our important tradition on the Fourth of July with sparkling displays of amazing lights. This is something we’re aware of and look forward to.

But, do fireworks really have to be so loud? Sensible options are available — for instance, quiet fireworks. It sounds like an oxymoron, but these firework shows are designed to mean less stress for noise-sensitive children, veterans, older people, pets and wildlife without pummeling the ears. In parts of Europe, quiet fireworks displays have grown increasingly common. In Britain, venues located near residents, wildlife or livestock ofter permit only quiet fireworks. One town in Italy passed a law in 2015 that all fireworks displays must be quiet. Another new option features hundreds of lighted, synchronized drone performances without the alarming percussion of fireworks.

Frankly, Coeur d’Alene has been allowed to become too noisy. Between the unmuffled (and illegal) motorcycles and cars that roar through town, the obnoxious loud boats that can’t wait to leave the “no-wake zone,” the ever-increasing fireworks and frequent concerts in town, we’ve grown complacent about the negative affects on our need for quiet and calm. Something has to change!

Do we want to known as “Coeur d’Alene — The Noisy City?”

City Council — are you listening?

IRENE SMITH

Coeur d’Alene