Fireworks DOs & DON'Ts in Sedgwick County

June 18, 2012

(WICHITA, Kan.) — Information from Sedgwick County regarding the sale and use of fireworks. This information applies to residents of Sedgwick County. Please check laws where you live.

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Summer is well underway and Fourth of July celebrations are right around the corner. While fireworks are used as part of the holiday celebration – and legal in Sedgwick County – it is important to remember that fireworks can be dangerous if not handled properly. Small children should not handle fireworks and older children should be supervised while doing so; always have a hose or bucket of water nearby; and follow the directions printed on the labels. These and other tips are available on the attachment or by visiting www.sedgwickcounty.org.

The sale of fireworks:

Any person, firm or corporation shall not sell fireworks to individuals at temporary retail stands or other locations, or deliver retail fireworks purchased by mail order, before June 27 and after July 5. (K.A.R 22-6-5) Remember, it is illegal to sell or buy fireworks in unincorporated Sedgwick County.

Shooting fireworks in Sedgwick County:

Fireworks may be possessed and shot from July 1 through the Independence Day federal holiday in all unincorporated areas of Sedgwick County. Sedgwick County's fireworks laws reflect those of the state of Kansas:

· Specifically permitted: all fireworks classified as consumer (1.4g) fireworks by DOT, except certain rockets.
· Specifically prohibited: 1) any rockets mounted on a wire or stick, any device containing such rockets, 2) commercial fireworks unless residents are licensed to purchase and handle them.

Shooting fireworks inside Sedgwick County municipalities:

Fireworks laws within city limits vary across the county. Check with your municipality about their regulations before you purchase or shoot fireworks. A good rule of thumb is “shoot them where you buy them.”

Reporting firework emergencies vs. nuisances:

If a firework causes injury, fire or other emergency, call 9-1-1 immediately.

In an effort to keep 9-1-1 lines open for emergency calls, a non-emergency number (290-1011) will be available on the evening of July 4 and early morning of July 5 for reports of fireworks complaints, including the illegal use of fireworks and nuisances. If a fireworks complaint deemed a non-emergency is received on a 9-1-1 line, the call taker will transfer the caller to the non-emergency number. If the fireworks complaint is deemed an emergency, the call taker will respond appropriately.

Sedgwick County Emergency Communications reminds residents to not call 9-1-1 with non-emergency calls. If callers need the assistance of police, fire or EMS and want to be contacted by emergency responders, call 9-1-1.

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