State Fire Marshal urges fireworks safety ahead of Fourth of July, World Cup celebrations

FOX23 News at 9 p.m

JEFFERSON CITY, Mo., (KBSI) — Missouri State Fire Marshal Tim Bean is urging residents to use caution with fireworks as the state prepares for a busy summer of celebrations, including America’s 250th anniversary and FIFA World Cup-related events in the Kansas City area.

The Division of Fire Safety said seasonal fireworks retailers can legally sell fireworks in Missouri from June 20 through July 10. As of June 11, the agency had issued 1,129 permits to seasonal fireworks retailers.

State officials expect an increase in fireworks use this year because the Fourth of July coincides with the nation’s 250th anniversary celebration. They also noted that some international soccer fans associate fireworks and pyrotechnics with sporting events.

The division emphasized that fireworks, smoke bombs and other pyrotechnic devices are prohibited at Arrowhead Stadium, FIFA Fan Fest events, public gathering places and in many jurisdictions throughout the Kansas City area.

Officials also warned residents against modifying fireworks, using them while consuming alcohol or storing them from one season to the next.

According to provisional data from the Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services, 358 people sought hospital care for fireworks-related injuries in Missouri during 2025. Of those, 42 were admitted to hospitals, and 81% of injuries occurred between June 21 and July 11.

Nationally, the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission reported 11 fireworks-related deaths and approximately 14,700 emergency room-treated injuries in 2024.

The Division of Fire Safety encourages residents to attend professional public fireworks displays, which officials said are both safer and provide larger displays than consumer fireworks.

The agency also recommends keeping water nearby when using fireworks, supervising children, wearing eye protection and using fireworks only in open areas free of combustible materials.