BY JADEN MOUNT
Tomorrow is Independence Day! That means loads of grilled food, fire pits, American flags, and, most of all, fireworks.
As always, it is important to remember to be cautious and safe whilst utilizing fireworks for your 4th of July celebration. The smallest incident could lead to an unfortunate trip to the hospital.
“While shooting your own fireworks can be a thrill,” said Kansas Fire Marshal Doug Jorgensen on a flyer titled “Fireworks Play It Safe”. “The safest approach to enjoying fireworks is to visit public fireworks displays conducted by trained professionals who know how to properly handle fireworks. We want all our Kansas kids to enjoy this Summer’s fun and festivities as safely as possible.”
The flyer was sent in by Fort Hays State University Police Chief Ed Howell. This flyer offer tips on the “safe use of fireworks” by the Office of the State Fire Marshal. These tips include always purchase high-quality fireworks from reliable and legitimate sources, always read and follow the label directions, and have an adult supervise all firework activities.
And if you ever wanted to know how hot sparklers burn, take care knowing these products burn hotter than the boiling point of water (212 *degrees* Fahrenheit), the burning of wood (575 *degrees* Fahrenheit), and the melting point of glass (900 *degrees* Fahrenheit). According to the flyer, sparklers burn at a whopping 1200 *degrees* Fahrenheit.
On June 5, 2018, Hays Fire Department released a press briefing on the subject prepared by Interim Fire Chief Ryan Hagans. The briefing includes information that provided requirements for fireworks vendors, the sale of fireworks, and state law prohibitions on the product.
According to Hagan’s briefing, “Consumer fireworks may only be sold within the city limits on July 2, 3, and 4 unless the City Commission suspends the sale and use of fireworks for safety reasons.” Locations of sale are also to place no smoking signs at the entrance and throughout the area of each vendor and “are to be at least 50-ft away from fuel pumps.”
In terms of use, these products can only be utilized within the city limits “from 10 AM to 11 PM on July 2, 3, and 4.” Kansas State Law does not allow the use of fireworks in the following circumstances.
-From a moving or stationary vehicle.
-On a public street or right-of-way.
-Within 100-feet of a hospital or nursing home or fireworks locations.
-Within 50-feet of a fuel pump or gas station.
-Use of bottle rockets or other skyrockets mounted on a stick or wire.
Hays City Code also prohibits the use of firework in cemeteries.
Be sure to keep it safe this 4th of July, practice acceptable methods of the fireworks, and being courteous and respectful to your neighbors and fellow citizens.
Have a Happy Independence Day!