Mexican towns grapple with unsafe fireworks traditions

In the municipality of Teocelo, the local animal‑rights group Educación y Protección Animal de Teocelo (EPAT) has warned that the resurgence of fireworks during patron saint celebrations is endangering residents and pets. Authorities led by mayor Daniela Villegas Olmos have not taken a clear stance, leaving the community vulnerable to noise‑induced stress for people with autism, the elderly, infants and patients, as well as severe anxiety and physical harm for dogs and cats.

Meanwhile, the Coordinación Estatal de Protección Civil (CEPC) in the state of Morelos, headed by Ubaldo González Carretes, announced heightened patrols to curb the sale and use of illegal fireworks ahead of upcoming festivals. The agency highlighted recent incidents, including a powerful blast in Ocotepec that injured people and damaged a church, and urged citizens to report clandestine vendors. Both regions are calling for stricter enforcement to protect public health, safety and animal welfare.