I definitely keep the tv on and the volume up on the tv. It helps me to know what time the local organized fireworks go off, so I can expect them. And I know local families will probably start at dusk and continue until about 10. Knowing that the noises are going to happen for a set period of time helps a lot.

In past years, what has really helped me is leaving the house! Last year I had dinner out with a friend, and we drove around to find a parking lot where we could see local fireworks from afar--that was great because we were far away from houses, which is where the unpredictable firework noises come from.

I'm glad I'm not alone tonight, sitting with the hypervigilance--you guys are doing it too!