With the Fourth of July approaching, Salina311 spoke with Matt Rittel, Fire Inspector/Investigator with the Salina Fire Department’s Prevention Division, about fireworks safety and the city’s local ordinances. Rittel and his office partner, Fire Inspector/Investigator Chad Scoville, work under Fire Marshal Joe Kvacik to help ensure a safe holiday season for Salina residents.
Although the department does not track local injury statistics specifically tied to fireworks, Rittel pointed to national data from the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) for context.
“In 2024 alone, an estimated 14,700 people were treated in emergency rooms for firework-related injuries,” he said. “That number doesn’t even account for those who were injured but didn’t seek medical attention.”
The CPSC also reported 11 deaths from fireworks in 2024. According to Rittel, burns made up 37% of all injuries, with hands and fingers accounting for 36% of those burns, and 22% affecting the face.
Fireworks Safety Tips from Salina Fire Department
Rittel and Scoville shared several key safety tips:
- Never allow children to ignite or play with fireworks, including sparklers, which can burn at over 2,000°F.
- Purchase only legal fireworks—in Salina, legal fireworks must be marked with 1.4G or 1.4S and labeled for consumer use. Anything marked “professional use only” should not be sold commercially.
- Keep a water source nearby, such as a hose or bucket, and thoroughly soak spent fireworks.
- Light one firework at a time and move away quickly.
- Do not re-light or approach malfunctioning (“dud”) fireworks.
- Homemade fireworks are illegal and dangerous.
- Avoid mixing fireworks with alcohol or drugs.
- After the celebration, soak all debris and keep it away from homes.
“We’ve already had one trash can fire this year,” Rittel noted. “Someone discarded used fireworks too early and the can caught fire.”
Fireworks Ordinance Reminders for Salina
Rittel also outlined key fireworks regulations within city limits:
- Fireworks may only be discharged on July 3rd and 4th between 8:00 a.m. and 11:00 p.m.
- Minors may only discharge fireworks under direct adult supervision.
- Fireworks cannot be discharged on public property, including city streets and cul-de-sacs.
- Fireworks are only permitted on private property with the owner’s consent.
- Discharging fireworks from, into, or under a vehicle—whether moving or parked—is prohibited.
- Fireworks must not be used within 100 feet of hospitals, nursing homes, or assisted living facilities.
- Fireworks are also restricted within 300 feet of firework sales locations.
- Fireworks must not be thrown toward people, vehicles, or bicyclists.
- Residents must ensure fireworks or their residue do not impact adjoining properties.
Rittel emphasized the department’s goal is education, not enforcement.
“We want everyone to celebrate safely and responsibly,” he said. “If people follow the rules and use good judgment, we can all enjoy the holiday without unnecessary risk.”
Salina311 will continue to share public safety updates through the holiday weekend. For more information, visit salina311.com or contact the Salina Fire Department Prevention Division.