WARNING: 4th Of July Fireworks Can Affect Texas Veterans With PTS

Fireworks are synonymous with Fourth of July celebrations. They add to the celebration and party atmosphere as we celebrate the birth of our nation.

Fireworks will be going off and lighting up the sky throughout Smith County as well as Gregg County and the other 252 Texas counties. We'll be 'ohh'ing and 'ahh'ing over the brilliant colors and displays, but there is a segment of our population that can be negatively affected by fireworks.

The loud explosions of fireworks can trigger some pretty traumatic memories for those who are affected by PTSD.

Sudden loud booms could trigger and cause some disturbing images and thoughts to return to the minds of our veterans and active military who are home for the holiday. We don't often think about this affecting our neighbors but it can.

While talking with a co-worker, she reminded me that veterans and military members are often affected by 4th of July fireworks. Something I had never really considered or thought about.

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These men and women who served our country with honor and dignity, with many of them doing it in a wartime setting, were often exposed to loud and awful sounds that continue to affect them to this day. When they experience or hear a loud boom or explosion it can take them back to that place and time.

Be Considerate - Talk To And Inform Your Neighbors Of Your Fireworks Intentions

PTSD can be traumatic. So, if you live in an unincorporated neighborhood in the county and plan to shoot off fireworks, tell your neighbors what your plans are. Just know you can't set off fireworks within city limits because it's against the law. Telling your neighbors about your plans could save a lot of pain and anguish. Especially if you have military or former military neighbors.

After speaking with them you could take it a step further by asking them to join in on the celebration and be a part of your gathering and celebrate the 4th of July together, if they're comfortable with it. After all, they were fighting for this country and your freedoms.

30 Outrageous Fireworks Names That Sound Fake, But Are Actually Real

In states where fireworks are legal to purchase, stores have to rely on creative names to entice buyers. It's not like they can just go out and light off a test rocket to show customers.

Here are some of the best fireworks names we found when searching leading industry stores' online inventory.

Gallery Credit: Rob Carroll

10 Must-Have Items When Watching Fireworks in Minnesota

Before you head out to watch with your kids, go through the checklist below to make sure your night of watching the amazing lights in the sky is as perfect as possible.

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The Classic 'Must-Have' Fireworks From My Childhood

Believe it or not, I was never a huge fireworks' fan growing up. In fact, I was terrified of them. I liked watching all the different colors light up the sky, however, I was (and to some degree still am) sensitive to the loud noises and big booms. Sometimes I would have to watch fireworks displays from my car. It really became that much of an issue for me.

Now that I am much older, I have overcome my most of fears and enjoy viewing fireworks shoes with my family and friends. Prior to the main event, I light up sparklers and other, smaller fireworks with them to get excited for the rest of the evening's festivities.

I recently looked back at some photos and videos from past 4th of July celebrations that I've experienced. So many great memories were created during these times.

Here are some of the "must-have" fireworks we always had on hand during the 4th of July parties.

Gallery Credit: Christine Manika