Firecrackers! Sparklers! Local hospitals treat fireworks-related injuries

They came to the University of Kansas Hospital’s Burnett Burn Center this weekend with injuries on their hands, chests, eyes and arms.

The cause?

Firecrackers, smoke bombs and sparklers.

As of midafternoon Tuesday, before the firecracker prime-time had hit, KU Hospital’s Burnett Burn Center had admitted nine patients for fireworks-related injuries since the holiday weekend began Friday afternoon.

Officials planned to release a final update for fireworks-related injuries Wednesday.

Of those nine patients, seven were male and two were female. The patients ranged in age from 17 months to 60 years old. At least three people were hospitalized.

In Kansas City, Mo., and many other municipalities, it is illegal to possess, use or sell fireworks. City government and fire officials told the public to attend professional displays instead.

According to the National Council on Fireworks Safety, people should:

▪ Avoid alcohol when handling fireworks.

▪ Obey local laws regarding fireworks use.

▪ Supervise children who are participating in fireworks activities.

▪ Wear safety goggles when shooting fireworks.

▪ Light one firework at a time and then move quickly away.

▪ Use fireworks outdoors and away from buildings and cars.

Raytown police reminded the public earlier this summer that people must get a permit to shoot fireworks in Raytown.

“Do not shoot them at anyone, fire them from a vehicle, use them inside a building, detonate them near anything else that could explode, and if you are under 16 you must have an adult with you to use your fireworks,” the department said in a release.

This story was originally published July 4, 2017 at 6:00 PM with the headline "Firecrackers! Sparklers! Local hospitals treat fireworks-related injuries."