The alliance of the self-proclaimed Fourth Transformation (4T) in the Chamber of Deputies of Mexico has announced plans to regulate the production and sale of fireworks in the country. Deputy Mayra Espino Suárez, through the Green Ecologist Party of Mexico (PVEM), presented an initiative to reform and add provisions in the General Law of Civil Protection and in the Federal Law of Firearms and Explosives with the aim of regulating the use of fireworks.
In this regard, Espino Suárez mentioned that fireworks are a deeply rooted tradition in Mexico, but represent a significant risk to public health and safety. Data from the National Center for Disaster Prevention (Cenapred) shows that fireworks are the second leading cause of accidents in the country due to the lack of safety measures in their production and sale, thus increasing the risk of serious accidents.
The deputy alerted about the dangers associated with the incorrect handling of hazardous chemicals such as nitrates, perchlorates, and heavy metals present in the manufacturing of fireworks. These components, she explained, can cause serious health problems, and the release of substances during detonations can increase the risk of respiratory diseases and other harmful effects on public health.
She emphasized that in the State of Mexico, particularly in the municipality of Tultepec, half of the fireworks distributed in the country are produced, with the Mexican Foundation for Dermatology reporting that accidents associated with fireworks primarily affect children aged 7 to 17. The most common injuries include burns on hands, face, and eyes, with severe consequences ranging from scarring to amputations.
Furthermore, Espino Suárez pointed out that the noise generated by fireworks negatively affects the health of animals, particularly dogs, which can experience stress and anxiety, with potentially severe consequences for their health. The proposed initiative aims to reduce the risks associated with fireworks, promote the safety of people and animals, and prohibit the use of explosives during festivities without the proper authorization.
In this context, the federal legislator from PVEM stressed the importance of raising awareness about the dangers of fireworks, as well as their impact on the health and well-being of the population, with the goal of preventing accidents and protecting the community at large.