KDHE, State Fire Marshal give tips to safely celebrate July 4

WICHITA, Kan. (KSNW) — The Fourth of July is next week, and while celebrating can be fun, it’s important to stay safe while doing so.

The Kansas Department of Health and Environment, Office of the Kansas State Fire Marshal and Safe Kids Kansas shared some safety tips to ensure that all Kansans have a safe and fun Independence Day this year.

A news release says last year, there were a total of 146 injuries caused by fireworks in the state of Kansas. The person igniting the firework was most likely to be injured, and the hands were the most common body part to be injured.

Over half of the injuries that occurred from fireworks that happened on Independence Day were from burns. There was a 43% increase in reported injuries from 2022.

“Sparklers are often thought to be safe for young children, but they account for roughly one-quarter of all emergency room visits related to fireworks,” Cherie Sage, director of Safe Kids Kansas, said. “Children should not light fireworks, including sparklers, which burn at a temperature hot enough to melt glass. We encourage parents to let their little ones use glow sticks instead of sparklers and leave the rest to grownups.”

Here are some tips to keep your celebrations safe:

• Have adults supervise children and pets around grills and fireworks.
• Designate a child-free safety zone around grills and areas where fireworks are being lit.
• Store fireworks in a cool, dry place.
• Adults should only handle fireworks. Consider giving children glow sticks, which also help you see little ones after dark.
• Have a water supply ready, such as a bucket of water or garden hose.
• Dispose of used fireworks carefully, as they may reignite.
• Keep a first-aid kit available and nearby.
• Ignite fireworks outdoors on a flat surface.
• Light only one firework at a time.
• Never stand over fireworks when lighting or holding a firework in your hand when lighting the fuse and wear eye protection.
• Never try to re-light or pick up fireworks that have not ignited fully.
• Never attempt to make your own fireworks.

Always refer to the local ordinances as to whether fireworks are allowed in your area, as well as what types.  Some cities or counties have restricted dates/times or types of fireworks that may be sold or discharged.

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