The 4th of July holiday is quickly approaching and Wichita Fire Department (WFD) officials urge residents to follow a few simple safety tips for hot and windy weather on the fourth:
- Keep fireworks away from grassy areas or structures;
- Do not light fireworks if it’s windy; consider attending a fireworks show;
- Use fireworks only sold in Wichita; others may be illegal;
- Place a garden hose and water bucket nearby to douse fireworks;
- Supervise children using fireworks and make certain youth are age-appropriate;
- Set a good example; use fireworks as they are designed.
Via Christi provide a few other safety tips to avoid injuries:
- Never light fireworks in your hand or near your face.
- Never ignite fireworks in a glass or metal container. The container may explode or shatter, sending shrapnel long distances with great force.
- Keep a bucket of water close by to douse “duds.” Never attempt to relight a firework.
- Sparklers can burn at 1,200 degrees Fahrenheit and are not made for very young children.
- Put all used sparklers in a bucket of water as they may remain hot for a long period of time.
- Call 911 or your local emergency number.
- Remove clothing, shoes, diapers and jewelry. These may hide burns and retain heat, increasing the skin damage.
- Cool the burn with water for a short time. Never use ice on a burn. It can make it worse.
- If in doubt, call for help and keep the patient warm and calm.
Fireworks will be sold in Wichita between June 27 (Wednesday) through July 5 (Thursday). You may legally shoot off fireworks from 6 a.m. until midnight.
For additional information, please contact Fire Prevention at 268-4441.For a list of approved fireworks and additional safety tips, visit the Wichita Fire Departments web site atwww.wichita.gov.
