TOPEKA (KSNT) - The Kansas State Fire Marshal (KSFM) released information on fireworks incidents and store inspections from the 2025 Fourth of July season.
The KSFM said 165 fireworks-related injuries occurred during this year's season, an increase from 144 in 2024. Some incidents included:
A 60-year-old man from Topeka who suffered severe injuries to his chest and stomach while reportedly igniting and throwing a homemade explosive device.
An 18-year-old man in Shawnee County who lost his hand and forearm while reportedly dismantling consumer firework mortar shells.
12- and 13-year-old brothers in Wyandotte County who had ignited what are believed to be illegal or homemade fireworks. The 12-year-old suffered burns across his face, throat, and body, along with shrapnel wounds to the chest. His 13-year-old brother sustained burns to the face and lost a finger in the explosion.
KSFM agents conducted more than 350 inspections of temporary businesses and found more than 300 violations of the Kansas Fireworks Act. Agents made 10 seizures of illegal bottle rockets and other illegal homemade fireworks.
"During the majority of inspections, Agents were able to work with and educate owners on the steps they needed to take to comply with state law and maintain the safety of their business. However, Agents did find several instances where there was an immediate threat to safety, including fireworks being stored and sold in a building that also housed a licensed childcare center in Nemaha County, which had to be addressed immediately."
Hospitals in Topeka told 27 News they collectively treated more than 20 patients between June 29 and July 6.
Seasonal fireworks vendors could start selling fireworks from June 20 and to July 7 after the state extended the season. Before the law change, Kansans could only buy fireworks nine days out of the year from seasonal vendors.
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