Fireworks Safety

We would like to remind Kansans of the importance of fireworks safety this Independence Day. Fireworks are dangerous to both adults and children if not handled properly.

In 2022, there were a total of 102 injuries caused by fireworks. The individual shooting the firework was most likely to be injured and the hands were the most common body part to be injured. Over half of injuries occurred on the 4th of July and most persons received burns. There was a 43% decrease in reported injuries from 2021. Each age group saw a decrease except for a slight increase in 0‐3-year-olds. The highest incidences of injuries were caused by mortars or artillery fireworks and other fireworks like parachutes, fountains and spinning items. 

We want all Kansans to have a fun, safe Fourth of July, Doug Jorgensen, Fire Marshal for the State of Kansas, said. We know the safest way to enjoy fireworks is to visit public fireworks displays conducted by trained professionals who know how to properly handle fireworks. If you are going to purchase and partake in consumer fireworks, a few simple precautions can prevent you or your loved ones from becoming one of these statistics.

Fireworks Safety Tips

To help the public celebrate safely, the Office of the State Fire Marshal offers the following tips for the safe use of fireworks:

• Always ignite outdoors
• Have an adult supervise all fireworks activities
• Have a water supply nearby
• Light from a solid, flat and stable platform
• Light only one firework at a time
• Make sure fireworks debris is cooled off completely before disposing
• Never re-ignite malfunctioning fireworks
• Store fireworks in a cool, dry place
• Use a long-handled lighter

Bottle rockets and M80s are illegal in Kansas and extremely dangerous. The use or sale of these banned fireworks is considered a crime under Kansas law. It is also illegal in Kansas to shoot fireworks on or under any vehicle, on any public roadway, within 50 feet of a fireworks stand or where fireworks are stored, and at gas stations or any place liquid gas - including propane - is stored.

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.