How to safely dispose of Fourth of July fireworks, multiple fires in KC area

KANSAS CITY, Mo. — Once Fourth of July fireworks are used, what should you do with them?

You’ll want to make sure you’ve disposed of your spent fireworks properly. Otherwise, you could wake up to a fire.

Some people in the Kansas City metro have already woken up to fires, and some holiday festivities are not over yet.

Most people throw their old fireworks in the trash, including some that were duds and didn’t go off. However, they still contain more active chemicals. The cartridge could still be hot and it could start a fire in your trash can that could move to your house.

So far this year, KCFD has already responded to multiple firework-related house fires and injuries. There have also been several dumpster fires.

The Kansas City Fire Department reminds the community to ensure that all your fireworks debris is out and no longer smoldering before placing it in your trash can.

KCFD said it is best to place debris in a 5-gallon bucket or trash can and soak it thoroughly with water. Make sure to not put trash cans with fireworks debris inside your garage or home.

Another Fourth of July concern is charcoal. If you grill with charcoal for your holiday barbecue, make sure you leave it on your grill for at least two days. Then wrap it in aluminum before you put it in the trash.

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