If you're headed across the border to load up your car will illegal fireworks you might want to think twice. Your amateur pyrotechnics display could not only land you in a heap of trouble, but it could also have some serious consequences that you're not aware of.

Here are five reasons why setting off illegal fireworks may be a terrible idea.

1. It's Illegal
This may seem like a lame reason to many people, but the fact of the matter is that exploding fireworks are illegal in New York State. Unlike marijuana and other substances that some groups think should be legalized, fireworks have not been decriminalized. That means it's still a big deal if you get caught with them, even if you don't agree they should be illegal.

2. It's torture for dogs and cats
Dogs and cats are terrified by fireworks. The constant loud banging and flashing of lights can send those four-legged friends into a frenzy with no place to hide. Unfortunately, there's little any pet owner can do to comfort these confused animals as those fireworks keep exploding outside.

3. Many veterans and victims of PTSD are terrorized by fireworks
Veterans groups have been campaigning for people to be mindful of former military and law enforcement officers in their neighborhoods before setting off loud fireworks. Your celebration of our country's birthday may actually be terribly traumatic to those who've sacrificed so much to protect our freedom.

4. Fireworks are extremely dangerous for everyone who lives around you
Think setting off a few bottle rockets is no big deal? According to the National Fire Protection Assiciation, fireworks are responsible for 18,500 fires per year. These fires have lead to countless deaths and injuries and cost over $43 million in property damage every year. Last year there were 13,000 firework related injuries, and the majority of emergency room visits were for 10 to 14-year-olds injured by fireworks.

5. Your neighbors will hate you
No matter how cool you think your fireworks show is, everyone who lives in your neighborhood thinks you're a jerk for setting them off. They may not say it, but it's the truth.

So, before you decide to set off your own fireworks this 4th of July, consider leaving the pyrotechnics to the professionals. Kids, veterans, pets and your judgemental neighbors will all thank you for it.

Listen to the Boris & Robyn Show weekday mornings from 6AM to 10AM on 101.5 WPDH. Stream us live through the website, Alexa-enabled device, Google Home or the WPDH mobile app.

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