Fireworks can be sold and discharged in Parsons from June 30 to July 4.
The Kansas Legislature this year allowed cities to expand the fireworks season from June 20 to July 7. The Parsons City Commission voted to maintain the same fireworks schedule as in previous years due to concerns from citizens who opposed it and worries about pets.
As the fireworks sales are to begin next week, the Kansas Fire Marshal’s Office urged caution for citizens.
“As Kansans prepare to celebrate Independence Day, I want to emphasize the importance of using fireworks safely and responsibly,” said State Fire Marshal Mark Engholm. “A few simple precautions can help prevent injuries, fires, and tragic outcomes.”
Safety tips: — Always read and follow the directions on the fireworks label.
— Only use fireworks outdoors, in a clear and open area away from buildings, vehicles, dry grass, and other combustible materials. Do not shoot fireworks within 100 feet of a health care center, hospital, nursing facility, or consumer fireworks stand.
— Do not shoot fireworks on or toward roadways or shoot fireworks from or toward vehicles.
— Have a garden hose, bucket of water, or fire extinguisher nearby in case of emergencies.
Never allow young children to play with or ignite fireworks. Older children should be closely supervised by a responsible adult.
— Light fireworks one at a time and move back quickly.
— Never place any part of your body directly over a firework when lighting the fuse.
— Never try to relight or handle malfunctioning fireworks. Soak them in a 5-gallon bucket of water and properly dispose of them.
— Do not shoot fireworks from metal or glass containers.
— Do not handle fireworks while under the influence of alcohol.
— Properly dispose of spent fireworks by soaking them in water before placing them in a trash receptacle. Every year, Kansans lose their homes after fireworks rekindle in trash cans located next to their houses and spread to their attics.
If you encounter illegal fireworks or homemade explosives, dial 911 or call 1-800-KS-CRIME.
Kansas State University offered safety tips for pet owners during the Independence holiday. Pets face additional anxiety and risk during the holiday. Loud noises, See TIPS, Page 3.
bright flashes, unfamiliar guests and tempting table scraps can all pose threats to their health and safety.
KSU veterinarian Susan Nelson encourages pet owners to start preparing early, especially if their pet has shown fear around fireworks in the past.
“One of the most important things is to keep your pet inside during the days fireworks are allowed, as it is this time of year that sees the highest numbers of lost pets,” said Nelson, clinical professor at K-State’s Veterinary Health Center. “The noises and flashes are very frightening for many pets and can cause them to flee in an attempt to get away from the commotion.”
If your pet must go outside, always use a leash. Ensure your pet is wearing a collar with ID tags, and consider microchipping if it’s not already done, as it will provide backup if your pet’s collar is lost. Keeping contact information up to date is critical in case your pet gets lost.
Nelson advises creating a calm, secure environment indoors to help reduce pet stress. For many pets, a familiar crate or closed-off room offers a comforting retreat.
“A crate or quiet room with the blinds drawn can make a big difference for dogs that feel overwhelmed,” Nelson said.
Keeping pets indoors also reduces their risk of physical harm. Fireworks, whether lit or leftover, can injure or poison animals. In neighborhoods where fireworks are frequently used, relocating pets to a quieter home or boarding facility may be the safest choice.
Additional measures can also be helpful, depending on your pet’s needs. Over-the-counter calming aids are an option for some animals.
Other strategies include soothing background noise — such as a television, radio or white noise machine — or offering a distraction like a food puzzle or stuffed food toy. Anxiety wraps may help some pets and can be used alone or in combination with medication.
For pets with a history of severe noise phobia, it’s important to consult your veterinarian early.
“There’s no one-size-fitsall solution,” Nelson said. “For some pets, an anxiety wrap is enough. But others with more serious phobias may need prescription medications, and for those, you need to plan ahead of time with your veterinarian.”
Beyond anxiety, Nelson warns there are many holiday hazards that involve food, drinks and common party items.
“We often see pets get sick around the holidays from foods that aren’t meant for them,” Nelson said. “Even small amounts of things like chocolate, fatty meats or xylitol can have serious consequences.”
Toxic foods include chocolate, grapes, raisins, onions, garlic, macadamia nuts and salt. Doughs with yeast can expand in a pet’s stomach, causing pain or more serious complications. Fatty meats can trigger life-threatening pancreatitis. Corn cobs, bones and wooden skewers can also cause internal blockages or perforations if swallowed. Alcohol and energy drinks are other risks that should be kept out of reach at all times.
Nelson said common backyard and party items such as matches, lighter fluid, glow jewelry, insect coils, citronella candles and repellents — especially those containing DEET — are also dangerous if ingested or used incorrectly around pets.
Hot weather adds to the risk. Pets can overheat quickly, so access to shade and fresh water is essential. Watch for signs of heat stress and move pets indoors to cool spaces if needed.
Finally, even if your dog seems unfazed by loud sounds, it’s best to leave them at home during firework shows.
“Even the most easygoing dog can react unpredictably when fireworks start,” Nelson said.
