Renewed call for fireworks ban in London, Ont.
There is a renewed effort to have fireworks banned in London, Ont.
The author of an online petition says the evidence is mounting that the negatives outweigh any enjoyment fireworks provide.
Deanna Ronson insists there are other ways to celebrate significant holidays.
For many the Victoria Day long weekend is the kick-off to the summer and fireworks are part of the that celebration.
For others, those fireworks bring anxiety, including those with dogs like Melissa Blackall, "I had one that had an ear infection and any loud noise would set her off."
While her newest addition, Cassini, has no issues, Blackall has a senior dog that struggles with the sounds, "He'd hide down in the basement," she said.
Deanna Ronson says there are numerous concerns for pets, wildlife and people, ranging from psychological impacts to environmental issues.
“I've found multiple studies done on the impact on the environment – heavy metals, particulates in the air," said Ronson.
Blackall adds that while she has concerns for pets, she's equally concerned about individuals arriving from war-torn countries.
"With the lights and the noise and the flash, I can totally understand the new Canadians and the kids being afraid of them."
Ronson has outlined her concerns in an online petition and is hoping it will continue to build momentum heading into the upcoming municipal election.
She's also been encouraged by conversations with city staff indicating that bylaw changes are being considered.
"I don't believe it when I'm told it can't be done, because it can and other places have done it," said Ronson.
She said there are cost-effective alternatives, including laser displays and silent flash fireworks, that don't dramatically impact the environment, animals or the people.
CTVNews.ca Top Stories
Grandparent scam: London, Ont., senior beats fraudsters not once, but twice
It was a typical Tuesday for Mabel Beharrell, 84, until she got the call that would turn her world upside down. Her teenaged grandson was in trouble and needed her help.
Deaths of 4 people on Sask. farm confirmed as murder-suicide
The deaths of four people on a farm near the Saskatchewan village of Neudorf have been confirmed a murder-suicide.
George Washington family secrets revealed by DNA from unmarked 19th century graves
Genetic analysis has shed light on a long-standing mystery surrounding the fates of U.S. President George Washington's younger brother Samuel and his kin.
Why some Christians are angry about Trump's 'God Bless the USA' Bible
Former U.S. President Donald Trump is officially selling a copy of the Bible themed to Lee Greenwood’s famous song, 'God Bless the USA.' But the concept of a Bible covered in the American flag has raised concern among religious circles.
Full parole granted to man convicted in notorious 'McDonald's murders' in Cape Breton
The Parole Board of Canada has granted full parole to one of three men convicted in the brutal murders of three McDonald's restaurant workers in Cape Breton more than 30 years ago.
Rainfall warnings of up to 80 mm among weather alerts in effect for 6 provinces
Rainfall warnings of up to 90 millimetres and other alerts have been issued for six Canadian provinces, according to the latest forecasts.
Sunshine list: These were the Ontario public sector's highest earners in 2023
Ontario released its annual sunshine list Thursday afternoon, noting that the largest year-over-year increases were in hospitals, municipalities, and post-secondary sectors.
Bus plunges off a bridge in South Africa, killing 45 people. An 8-year-old child is only survivor
A bus carrying worshippers headed to an Easter festival plunged off a bridge on a mountain pass and burst into flames in South Africa on Thursday, killing at least 45 people, authorities said.
Calgary bridges remain closed due to ongoing police incident
Calgary police have shut down a number of bridges into and out of the downtown core as officers deal with a distraught individual.