Quintana Roo Congress Calls for Fireworks Ban to Protect Vulnerable Groups

Chetumal, Quintana Roo — The Quintana Roo Congress has issued an exhortation directed at the state’s 11 municipalities to reinforce regulation around the sale and use of explosive fireworks during the December holiday season and other traditional festivities. The measure aims to reduce risks for the population, pets, and the environment.

Deputy Hugo Alday Nieto explained that this call comes in response to requests from animal protection groups and associations representing individuals on the autism spectrum, seeking the establishment of more specific protective measures. The initiative is particularly relevant during this time of year when sales increase on public streets, social media, and even through clandestine channels.

Protecting Vulnerable Populations

“The 11 municipalities are exhorted to limit the use of fireworks as much as possible, given the effects it causes on the population with autism spectrum disorder,” Alday Nieto stated. “These are people particularly sensitive to strident sounds and intense lights, making it essential to guarantee safe environments for those living with this condition. Although regulations already exist prohibiting fireworks due to their impact on animals, this exhortation seeks to reinforce attention toward these individuals, especially now during the holiday season.”

The legislator clarified that this call stems from an initiative presented months ago, justified by the impact on people with autism and older adults, as well as the danger these explosive devices represent for children. The objective is not to harm commercial activity but rather to guarantee public safety, the protection of vulnerable groups, and animal welfare.

Recurring Annual Problem

“Unfortunately, the same story repeats every year,” Alday Nieto noted. “With the December holidays, reports increase about the harm caused by the noise in people with autism, older adults, and also in pets. That’s why this call is being made.”

The legislator expressed confidence that the document could be addressed and approved before the start of the legislative recess so municipalities can join this strategy, achieve effective application, and most importantly, ensure the holidays proceed without any incidents.

The use of fireworks does increase cases of dead or lost pets and causes people with autism to suffer physical injuries and emotional crises. For these groups with auditory hypersensitivity, fireworks provoke fear, panic, and disorientation.