“Don’t just shove it in a trash can”: Kansas City Missouri Fire Department gives reminders as you get rid of used fireworks

KANSAS CITY, Mo. (KCTV) – July 4th has come and gone, which means it’s time to throw out used fireworks. Before you do, the Kansas City, Missouri, Fire Department wants to make sure you get rid of them properly.

According to Battalion Chief, Michael Hopkins, the department responded to at least four house fires because of improper disposal.

Hopkins said you should always douse used fireworks in water, at least overnight. He said the explosives should be placed in a five-gallon bucket or a metal container to completely put it out.

“Definitely don’t just shove it in a trash can and put it in your garage with a normal bag,” Hopkins said. “Some of that stuff can still be smoldering. We have had a couple of fires over the last several days that we highly suspect are people picking up the debris, and putting them in a trash can in the garage. Next thing you know, smoke detectors are going off.”

Hopkins said the department also responded to several injury-related calls from fireworks. He said most of the injuries are to either hands or face.

If you have any questions about disposing of fireworks, you can call the Kansas City Fire Department at (816)924-1700. If you have an emergency, call 911.

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