Fireworks-related injuries were up this year over 2024 in Kansas, officials announced yesterday, July 19th, according to the Kansas State Fire Marshal’s Office. Healthcare providers reported 165 fireworks-related injuries this year, that’s up 21 from the 144 fireworks-related injuries reported a year ago in 2024.
While most of the reported injuries didn’t require hospitalization, the Kansas State Fire Marshal’s Office says some victims suffered life-changing injuries that will require extended medical care and leave them with permanent disabilities. Some of the most serious included a pair of 12- and 13-year-old brothers in Wyandotte County who had ignited what are believed to be illegal or homemade fireworks. The 12-year-old suffered burns across his face, throat and body, along with shrapnel wounds to his chest. His brother sustained burns to the face and lost a finger in the explosion. An 18-year-old man in Shawnee County lost his hand and forearm while reportedly dismantling consumer firework mortar shells.
The Kansas fireworks season, which lasted 17 days, started on June 20 and ended on July 7 this year after a recent legislative change, Kansas State Fire Marshal’s officials noted.
