As the Fourth of July approaches, Eve Tolefree, of Lawrence-Douglas County Fire and Medical, will take reader questions about fireworks safety.

trombeck

How do I report illegal fireworks in town? Are there enough authorities on duty to respond to all of the reports?

monkeywrench

have you seen the video on youtube of the guy that gets a bottle rocket stuck in his butt? that’s awesome. ever seen that?

Moderator

Hello chatters. I’m Jon Niccum, entertainment editor of the Journal-World. Please welcome Eve Tolefree, division chief of quality services for the Lawrence Fire Department. In preperation for Fourth of July, she will be answering questions about fireworks safety.

Eve Tolefree

Hello, happy to be here.

msshaden

Where, if you can, shoot fireworks in Lawrence? I live on the east side of town and was told last year by the local police department that we couldn’t.

Eve Tolefree

In the City of Lawrence, fireworks are illegal for possession, use and sale. however novelty items NOT CLASSIFIED as fireworks are permitted. For instance snake and glow worms, party poppers, toy smoke devices, snappers, and sparklers.

mpaget

What should I do if I get a minor burn from a firework?

Eve Tolefree

In order to stop the burning process, apply cold water to the area and cover with dry sterile dressing. If blistering occurs, seek further care either at the ER, or your personal physician

ChristyLittle

Every year, people in my closed-in apartment complex start setting off fireworks. How serious of a complaint can police respond to on what I’m sure is a hectic night?

Eve Tolefree

Lawrence Police usually respond to most all fireworks complaints. If you have a concern for your property and safety, don’t hesitate to call.

trombeck

What’s the outlook in terms of how dry it is in the county for the Fourth this year? Are there major concerns about grass fires?

Eve Tolefree

The Kansas Rangeland Fire Danger Index is still low for Northeastern Kansas. That in itself provides some comfort to firefighters. With drier conditions, grass fires are expected to be more prevalent.

mpaget

What’s the best way to put out a small grass fire started by fireworks, and should I call the fire department right away in case it gets out of control?

Eve Tolefree

We always strongly recommend calling 911 immediately. We recommend utilizing any device that emits flame or heat well away from combustibles, houses fences, dry grass, anything that could potentially catch fire. The best way to put out a small grass fire is either utilize a garden hose or attempt to smother with dirt, sand, etc.

4th_grade_education

Will firecrackers pass safely through one’s digestive system?

Eve Tolefree

Why would you want it to? Please don’t ingest the firecracker. Your parents would appreciate it if you wouldn’t, I’m sure.

Moderator

When I was younger, my cousins and I would have ‘bottlerocket wars’ where we shot them at each other. Why were we such idiots?

Eve Tolefree

Not sure, I’m sure there are people who have done worse things with fireworks….right?

mpaget

Should small children wear ear plugs around loud fireworks?

Eve Tolefree

Hopefully, if the children are that small they shouldn’t be in that close a proximity of the fireworks. If there is a concern, it certainly would be beneficial to wear them.

Moderator

What’s the worst injury you’ve ever seen that was caused by fireworks?

Eve Tolefree

Severe burns to the face, hands lip area and fingers that have been dismembered by misuse of firecrackers.

Moderator

Any final thoughts on what Lawrence citizens should be wary about concerning fireworks usage?

Eve Tolefree

There is really nothing more unfortunate than dealing with property loss and injury to something that is preventable; particularly if those activities create a danger to citizens and firefighters. Many times regualtions are passed because of poor behaviors that have caused catastropic or severe results.
Please supervise your children while using fireworks. Have a safe and happy 4th of July

Moderator

Thank you Eve Tolefree for chatting with us today. Any crazy Fourth of July plans?

Eve Tolefree

Not really, spending time with family and friends.
Thanks