Shooting off fireworks for July Fourth? Follow these firework safety tips
From smoke balls and sparklers to firecrackers and mortars, fireworks are a staple of many Fourth of July weekend festivities. But with the vast displays of these brightly colored pyrotechnics comes many safety risks, especially for children.
In Kansas City, seven children between the ages of 3 and 16 have been treated at Children’s Mercy Hospital since July 1 for fireworks injuries, said Senior Manager of Media Relations Lisa Augustine.
These numbers are part of a larger group of fireworks-related injuries that occur each year. The Consumer Product Safety Commission estimates that 14,700 people were treated in emergency rooms for injuries resulting from fireworks in 2024. There were 11 deaths resulting from fireworks misuse or malfunction.
Though the exact number is hard to determine, Michael Hopkins, a spokesperson for the Kansas City Fire Department, says KCFD estimates it will receive numerous fireworks-related calls over the holiday weekend. However, it is against Kansas City law to launch fireworks within city limits.
“On average over the next several days, based on past holidays, it will not be out of the realm to run five to 15 calls per day … that are directly related to a firework injury. In addition, it is not uncommon to have three to four fires over the next several days that will be directly related to fireworks,” Hopkins said.
Firework safety this holiday weekend
Burns are the most common fireworks injury, especially hands and fingers. Hopkins recommends fireworks only be handled by responsible adults and that they follow all manufacturer instructions. Never point fireworks at a person, pet or property and don’t set them off in your hand or use them indoors, on dry grass or near flammable materials.
Sparklers, a hand-held firework often used by children, can heat up to 2,000 degrees. Kids’ arms often aren’t long enough to hold sparklers at a safe distance, according to Children’s Mercy and the Center for Childhood Safety and Injury Prevention. The Consumer Product Safety Commission advises that children do not use fireworks, including sparklers.
Only use one firework at a time and back away immediately after lighting it. If a firework fails to ignite, don’t stand over the firework to inspect it or try to reignite it. Keep a bucket of water, hose or a fire extinguisher on hand.
When you are finished with fireworks, never throw them away in your home trash can or inside the garage, even if you believe they are extinguished, said Hopkins. He recommends that fireworks be soaked with water for a few hours before they are disposed of.
This story was originally published July 4, 2025 at 5:00 AM.
