The City of Manhattan Fire Department would like to remind citizens to use fireworks responsibly and enjoy a safe Fourth of July holiday.
The Manhattan Fire Department responded to fewer fireworks related calls during the legal discharge dates in 2014 than in 2013. There were five fireworks related calls in 2014, all occurring on July 3rd or 4th, with no fire loss being reported. To keep safe, it is important to follow the City of Manhattan’s basic firework regulations:
- Discharge is allowed from 8 a.m. to midnight July 1 through July 4
- Sales are allowed from noon July 1 through midnight July 4
- It is unlawful to discharge fireworks in streets, alleys, parks or on public property.
- It is unlawful to throw or shoot fireworks in the direction of people or vehicles.
- It is unlawful to ignite aerial luminaries, sometimes called sky lanterns or floating lanterns.
Other important fireworks safety tips include:
- Sparklers, considered by many as “safe,” burn at very high temperatures, can easily ignite clothing, and stay hot long after burning out. They are as dangerous as matches or lighters to children. Be sure to collect all burned out sparkler wires for disposal.
- Find alternative activities for younger children such as glow sticks or snappers.
- Older children should only be permitted to use fireworks under close supervision. Never allow any running or
- Use lighters with a child resistant feature. Keep matches and lighters out of children’s reach.
- Light fireworks outdoors, one at a time, on a clear, smooth, flat surface away from houses, dry leaves or grass, or
- Keep water nearby for emergencies and for pouring on misfired or spent fireworks.
- Never try to relight or handle malfunctioning fireworks. Douse and soak them with water and throw them away.
- Be sure other people and pets are out of range.
- Never experiment with fireworks or ignite them in a glass or metal container. Do not attempt to make your own.
- Keep unused fireworks away from firing areas. Store them in a dry, cool place out of reach of children.
- Read and follow all manufacturers’ directions for the use of the fireworks.
- Dispose of all fireworks properly, placing them in a non-combustible container after wetting them thoroughly.
Please contact the Manhattan Fire Department with any questions at 785-587-4504. City ordinances with full details concerning fireworks are available on the City’s website http://cityofmhk.com/fireworks.
