With Fourth of July festivities set to commence, community members are reminded to exercise caution while celebrating.
According to the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission, fireworks have led to eight deaths and over 13,000 injuries since 2017.
Emporia Fire Marshall Reason Bradford says the most common injuries occur when individuals mishandle fireworks.
Newman Regional Health Emergency Room Director Damian O’Keefe says on average he sees between 5 to 6 injuries a year. While those numbers are low compared to the national average, he adds the majority are children.
Bradford expressed it is vitally important to double check all fireworks are fully extinguished before disposing of them.
Dousing containers with water, sand or dirt will help to extinguish any lingering embers, drastically reducing the chances of fires in the home. The Office of the Kansas Fire Marshall reminds residents that It is illegal to shoot fireworks on or under a vehicle, on any public roadway, within 50 feet of a firework stand or where fireworks are stored, and gas stations or any place liquid gas – including propane – is stored. For more information on firework safety laws visit www.firemarshal.ks.gov.
