Fireworks Safety

The City of Merriam would like to remind all residents to remember and observe all City ordinances pertaining to the use of fireworks within City limits. As a reminder, the City of Merriam no longer allows the use of sparklers and fountains. These and all Class C or Class B fireworks are illegal in Merriam. The use of snakes and caps are permissible since their small amount of powder does not meet the criteria to designate them as a class C explosive. Any illegal fireworks will be confiscated and destroyed by the fire department.

Between July 1st and July 5th, the Merriam Fire Department will periodically patrol the City to discourage fireworks violations. Those parties that do not follow the guidelines outlined by the City will be subject to a fine of $25.00 to $500.00 and/or thirty days in jail. Violators will also be placed on a fireworks violator list that is permanently maintained.

The usage and discharge of fireworks are strictly prohibited in the City of Merriam, however some communities do allow the discharge of certain class "C" fireworks. If your community allows for the discharge of fireworks, the Heart of America Metro Fire Chiefs Council offer the following safety tips:

• Purchase fireworks from reliable sources, never discharge homemade or illegal fireworks.
• Have a responsible adult in charge and never give fireworks to children
• Prepare a safe environment outdoors for shooting off fireworks by selecting an area clear of other fireworks, combustible materials like dried wood or grass, buildings, and other people.
• Have water readily available such as a garden hose and a bucket of water.
• Always read and follow label directions for the safe discharge of fireworks. Fireworks users should wear tight clothing to avoid accidental contact with sparks and use eye protection when handling and lighting fireworks.
• Light fireworks one at a time and wait until it discharges, never attempt to re-light a device that did not discharge the first time it was lit.
• Never carry fireworks in your pocket, they may ignite due to sparks and cause injury.
• Do not throw or point fireworks at other people or animals. Never shoot fireworks in metal or glass containers
• Dispose of spent fireworks properly when you are done by soaking them in water before putting them in a trash can
• If you get burned from fireworks, remember these do's and don'ts of burn care, if the injury is severe, call 911 immediately for emergency medical care:

For more information concerning City firework ordinances, contact the Merriam Fire Department at (913) 322-5530, or visit www.fireworksafety.com. As always, the City of Merriam wishes you a safe and happy Fourth of July.