Fretting over fireworks: Dealing with sounds, sights and smells this Independence Day
(Via Spectrum News | July 3, 2025) The Fourth of July celebrates America’s independence, usually with concerts, cookouts and, of course, fireworks. Fireworks are meant to be exciting and bring joy to viewers, but for some military veterans, the displays can trigger tough memories and cause distress.
Fireworks can be very triggering to anyone who has experienced any sort of trauma around loud noises, bright lights, gunfire, or explosions — all things that may apply to the veteran community.
These triggers can bring up memories of a traumatic event associated with those sounds, smells and visuals. The memories can be incredibly distressing and cause not only emotional reactions, but physical reactions as well.
You may see someone jumping or retreating. They may have jitters or nerves, sweaty palms or rapid heart rate. They may even become distant or have a far off, detached look in their eyes. In some cases, you may even see an increase in drug or alcohol use.
There are several ways veterans, or anyone triggered by fireworks, can try to feel safe during these events.
Syracuse University professor Ken Marfilius is a veteran of the U.S. Air Force and served as an active-duty mental health provider. He recommends preparing for these events ahead of time.
He said it can be helpful to figure out when and where fireworks will be set off. You can check out events happening near you or speak with a neighbor ahead of time to explain the situation and about any sensitivities to loud noises, bright lights, or crowds.
“Most people are pretty understanding and may even give you a heads up before setting any off,” Marfilius explained.
Marfilius also says it can be helpful to create a safe environment to retreat to if necessary. Any calm, safe, predictable place will do, even staying home with your favorite music, movie or book can help.
Marfilius also says it’s important to not isolate. Plan to spend time with friends, family, or even peer support groups so you know there’s someone available to talk to if you need it. Or at the very least, you’ll have good company for the holiday.
“Just knowing someone is available to talk to can make all the difference in the world,” Marfilius said …