Blair Kamin is to be congratulated for his story, “City soundscape about more than decibels” (Sun., Aug. 16) on the sounds that can enrich human experience. There is much to be said in favor of positive sound. But much more to be said about the damaging effects of noise.
According to The World Health Organization, “Burden of Disease from Environmental Noise,” excessive noise is a public health hazard that is known to cause cardiovascular disease, sleep deprivation, stroke and hearing loss and has proved to exacerbate anxiety, fear, anger and violence… violence like the November 2012 shooting death of a Florida teen by a man who was enraged by the loud music being played at a gas station.
Chicago is grateful to its forward-thinking leadership for recently agreeing to address the volume and frequency of emergency vehicle sirens; and we appreciate Aldermen like Brendan Reilly who step up to outlaw the outrageously loud steel pipes on certain motorcycles. These initial steps are being taken to help ensure the health and welfare of our citizens. Each of us has a right to know the deleterious effects of noise and how to protect ourselves. We need to turn down the sound, walk away from loud decibels or wear hearing protection. We need to work together to preserve a healthy environment in our city. We need to recognize the fact that noise is a nuisance, yes, but it is also a killer. We need to turn down the sound.
—Kathlyn Maguire, Chicago
