While the Fourth of July is all about fireworks for lots of people, the loud pops and glaring explosions can be nightmarish for others, including veterans of military service who suffer from mental health challenges like PTSD (Post-traumatic stress disorder). In Michigan, 11 state parks are designated as fireworks-free zones for that very reason.
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Mike Donelly, the park supervisor at Brighton Recreation Area, one of the 11 parks that will be celebrating the Fourth without fireworks. He says the reception has been positive overall, and reservations are filled up.
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More information about fireworks-free zones and preparing for the Fourth of July can be found here.