For those who will shoot fireworks on the Fourth of July, a happy holiday depends on following some safety tips.
The Kansas City, Kan., Fire Department is offering these safety tips, in conjunction with the Heart of America Metro Fire Chiefs Council.
Fireworks may be sold from June 29 through July 4 in Kansas City, Kan., and fireworks may be discharged between 9 a.m. and 11 p.m. from July 2 to 4.
• Purchase fireworks from reliable sources, never discharge homemade or illegal fireworks.
• Have a responsible adult in charge and never give fireworks to children.
• Prepare a safe environment outdoors for shooting off fireworks by selecting an area clear of other fireworks, combustible materials like dried wood or grass, buildings, and other people.
• Have water readily available such as a garden hose and a bucket of water.
• Always read and follow label directions for the safe discharge of fireworks. Fireworks users should wear tight clothing to avoid accidental contact with sparks and use eye protection when handling and lighting fireworks.
• Light fireworks one at a time and wait until it discharges, never attempt to re-light a device that did not discharge the first time it was lit.
• Do not throw or point fireworks at people or animals. Never shoot fireworks in metal or glass containers
• Dispose of spent fireworks properly when you are done by soaking them in water before putting them in a trash can,
The do’s and don’ts of burn care
If you get burned from fireworks, remember the do’s and don’ts of burn care. If the injury is severe, call 911 immediately for emergency medical care.
Do
• Cool a burn by flushing with water.
• Cover the burn with a dry, clean covering.
• Keep the victim comfortable and from becoming chilled or overheated.
Don’t
• Apply ice directly to any burn.
• Touch a burn with anything except a clean covering.
• Remove pieces of cloth that stick to the burned area.
• Break blisters or use any kind of ointment on a severe burn.
A spokesman for the Kansas City, Kan. Fire Department and the Heart of America Fire Chiefs Council said they wish all Greater Kansas City metropolitan residents a safe and happy Fourth of July.
For more tips and information, contact the fire department or visit http://www.nfpa.org/safety-information/for-consumers/holidays/fireworks.
For the Unified Government of Wyandotte County’s full fireworks ordinance visit
https://www.municode.com/library/ks/wyandotte_county_-_unified_government/codes/code_of_ordinances?nodeId=CH15FIPRPR_ARTIVFI
