Fireworks injuries increased in Wichita this July 4 season. How many were seen at hospitals?

Sixty people were treated in Wichita area hospitals for fireworks-related injuries from June 27 through July 4, representing a 50% increase from last year. No life-threatening injuries have been reported.

According to Wesley Healthcare and Ascension Via Christi, the majority of injuries were first- and second-degree burns. One person was transferred to Wesley Medical Center for surgery. Ascension reported that 16 people were treated in their emergency rooms, most of them for burns to hands and feet. Seven patients were seen in their burn ICU.

According to the city, 39 people were injured in Wichita due to fireworks during Fourth of July celebrations last year. In May, the City Council updated its fireworks ordinance to allow Wichitans to purchase aerial fireworks within city limits but limit the window of time to shoot them off.

In 2023, aerial fireworks were permitted from July 1-5. This year, they were allowed July 3-5 from 10 a.m. to midnight.