KCFD Reminds Residents to Leave Fireworks to a Pro

The City of Kansas City, Mo., Fire Department reminds residents that fireworks are illegal within the city limits. Residents are advised to leave the use of fireworks to trained professionals.

On a typical Independence Day holiday, there are more fires reported in the U.S. than on any other day of the year. Fireworks account for more than half of those fires.

The following statistics are from the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) and the National Fire Protection Agency (NFPA).

In 2009, fireworks caused:
more than 18,000 reported fires;
two civilian deaths;
an estimated $38 million dollars in property damage;
10,000 injuries that were treated in U.S. hospital emergency room departments. Two out of every five victims treated were under the age of fifteen.
Throughout the Kansas City metro, residents have numerous opportunities to enjoy a professional fireworks display sponsored by local organizations. The KCFD wishes residents a safe and happy Independence Day.