FREE EARPLUGS TO COUNTERACT FIREWORKS RACKET

FREE EARPLUGS TO COUNTERACT FIREWORKS RACKET

WASHINGTON (Wireless Flash) -- A group is warning that sounds generated by Fourth of July fireworks can be "toxic" and possibly injure your ear. The National Campaign for Hearing Health claims anyone who exposes their ears to a fireworks display is in danger of damaging their hearing and should wear earplugs. To help cut down on the din this weekend, the group is handing out free earplugs to anyone who calls 1-800-829-5934. But some fireworks professionals think the warning is too dramatic -- including Texas fireworks producer Harvey Girdley, who has staged fireworks shows for more than 50 years. Girdley claims the group's statement that fireworks can injure the ears of spectators is hogwash because the industry has already banned the really loud fireworks that could damage ears.

CONTACT: Molly McMahon (NCHH); Washington, DC; (202) 414-0772; Harvey Girdley, ****; San Antonio, TX; (210) 667-1818