The Kansas Department of Health and Environment reports that at least 102 fireworks-related injuries occurred in the state over the Independence Day Holiday week last year, a 43% decrease from the year before. Over half were from burns. The injuries, varying in severity, were reported by emergency departments throughout the state. The highest incidents of injuries were caused by mortars or artillery fireworks and other fireworks like parachutes, fountains and spinning items.
State Fire Marshal Doug Jorgensen says that the number of injuries show how greater care needs to be taken in handling fireworks, especially when children are concerned. Half of the injuries last year were to kids under 18. Injuries to the hands, eyes, face and head were most common.
Jorgenson adds that the fun people can have with fireworks should not outweigh the safety precautions. Little hands should not light fireworks, including sparklers, which burn at a temperature hot enough to melt glass.
