The Topeka Police Department received 60 calls relating to fireworks this weekend. The City of Topeka would like to remind everyone of the fireworks ordinance and encourage them to celebrate safely on July 3rd and 4th.
It is not legal to discharge fireworks within the city limits of Topeka except for the hours between 10:00 a.m. to 11:00 p.m. on July 3rd and from 10:00 a.m. to 11:59 p.m. on July 4th. If you would like to report a fireworks violation please call (785) 368-9551 or 911. Enhance the joy of this holiday period by practicing Safe Sane and Sober fireworks life-safety habits. For more information regarding the rules and regulations regarding fireworks consult Municipal Code 8.35.070 https://www.codepublishing.com/KS/Topeka/
The following Fireworks Safety Tips are shared to enhance your awareness:
Keep a ready source of water available i.e. a connected hose; a fire extinguisher or bucket of water should suffice.
Alcohol and fireworks do not mix. Appoint an adult or responsible person to be your designated igniter and to be on the lookout for sparks which may start unintended fires elsewhere. The adult can also activate emergency response (911), if a fire cannot be readily extinguished.
Adult Supervision Required. A person under the age of 18 years must be under adult supervision and in the physical presence of the adult to possess and discharge permitted consumer fireworks
.Wet down all ignition and fallout areas before lighting any fireworks. This way if a sparks does hit the ground then, chances of that spark igniting a fire will be minimal.
Always ignite fireworks on paved surfaces i.e. concrete or asphalt whenever possible; if not, select a dirt area where there is no grass or vegetation growth present.
Never ignite or discharge fireworks into, under, or from a car or vehicle, whether moving or standing still, or on a public roadway or the right-of-way adjoining a public roadway.
Be aware of wind conditions when preparing to enjoy your fireworks; if it is too windy then wait until such conditions subside.
Never park your vehicle on dry grass or close to where fireworks are being discharged.
Never attempt to relight a “dud” firework. Wait 10 – 20 minutes and then soak it in a bucket of water.