Fireworks are spectacular to watch, but can be extremely dangerous in the hands of amateurs. When celebrating the Fourth of July, or other outdoor events, the Wichita Fire Department urges residents to attend firework displays put on by trained professionals who follow state-of-the-art fire codes.
Local and national statistics show that annually, fireworks cause millions of dollars in property damage and thousands of injuries, as well as some deaths. Injuries from the intense heat of fireworks may typically harm the eyes, head, and hands and can sometimes cause blindness, amputations and severe burns. Some of these burns leave lifetime and disfiguring scars.
"Playing with fireworks invites disaster," says Chief Bob Thompson of the Wichita Fire Department. "It’s just not worth the risk."
Children are at the greatest risk from fireworks whether as spectators or active participants. As parents and adults, we have a responsibility to protect our children. While most parents work year round to keep their children safe, if they shoot off fireworks in their backyard once a year, they are placing their children at a substantial risk, says Chief Thompson.
On behalf of the Wichita Fire Department, we would like to wish each and everyone in the community a safe and enjoyable Fourth of July.