Independence Day
Good Food, Good Time and Fireworks

The Fourth of July can be a fun time for friends and family however, before you celebrate, here are a few facts that will make your holiday one to remember.

Fireworks can be dangerous as was demonstrated by the 60 individuals who sought emergency care in 2006 and the $160,000 that went up in smoke due to the careless use of fireworks. In 2005 no fire damage was reported and 37 individuals sought medical attention. The Office of the Fire Marshal recommends the following safety tips in order for you to have a safe and enjoyable Fourth of July celebration.

The following safety tips are for your protection. Please read and heed. A trip to the hospital should not be on your “things to do” list.

• Always read and follow label instructions.

• Make sure your outdoor area is safe for firework use.

• Always purchase fireworks from a reliable, legitimate source.

• Never give fireworks to a small child.

• Adults should always supervise the use of fireworks by older children.

• Never attempt to re-light a malfunctioning firework.

• Never throw or point fireworks at another person.

• Light only one firework at a time.

• Never carry fireworks in your pocket.

• Never experiment with homemade fireworks.

• Keep a readily available source of water available in case of a fire.

• Alcohol and fireworks do not mix.

What's Legal, What's Not:

The 2000 International fire Code, in Section 3301.1.1.23, adopted by the City of Wichita, and amended reads in part: The possession, storage, sale, handling, and use of specific types of Division 1.4G fireworks which have been approved by the Wichita Fire Department for use and sale within the City limits are allowed. Such fireworks shall comply with the following guidelines:

The fireworks comply with CPSC 16 CFR, Parts 1500-1507, and DOT 49 CFR, Parts 100-178, for consumer fireworks.
The fireworks shall be classified as Class C and/or 1.4G; and
Shall emit a shower of sparks no more than 6 feet in any direction; and
Shall not be labeled as emitting flaming balls.

A list of approved fireworks will be published in the Eagle and a copy will be kept on file in the Office of the Fire Marshal.

BOTTLE ROCKETS and other SKY ROCKETS are illegal for use in KANSAS.

The Wichita Fire Department wants you and your loved ones to have a safe and happy Independence Day celebration and remember:

SHOOT THEM WHERE YOU BUY THEM.

E. F. Bricknell,
Fire Marshal

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