SALINAS, Calif.-- "Use at your own risk." Fireworks come with caution labels, warning of the physical safety hazards.
But some pollution experts say there are hazards you can't see.
"You have strontium, aluminum, and different types of copper," said Monterey Bay Unified Air Pollution Control Officer Richard Stedman.
Stedman said the stuff shooting up into the sky isn't good for people to breathe.
"I hate to rain on the parade, but fireworks cause air pollution. The things were trying to take out of the air are actually put into fireworks," said Stedman.
Experts say setting off a few fireworks probably won't do too much damage to the environment.
It's all the lights in the sky at once at fireworks shows that pose the biggest threat.
Some Central Coast cities ban fireworks all together.
"Along the coast, where we may have a marine layer, it may hang around a lot longer. And the heavy metals in the smoke actually drop out," said Stedman.
The good news?
Big 4th of July displays only happen once a year.
So, pollution experts said if you're worried about what's in the air Wednesday night, stay inside.
by Briana Bermensolo
