Galichia Heart Hospital wishes you a safe July 4.

In Kansas last year, 49 percent of Kansas hospitals reported a total of 153 fireworks-related injuries.

Fortunately, most patients hurt badly enough to visit an emergency room were treated and released, but not everyone's injuries were minor. Three people were transferred to a burn center and four people were admitted to hospitals for treatment or observation. And this was only half the state's hospitals reporting, according to the Kansas State Fire Marshal's Office.

The No. 1 injury? Burns.

Here are the fireworks that caused the most injuries to Kansans last year:

Firecrackers  (28)                               
Bottle Rockets (5)
Sparklers (17)
Roman Candles (13)
Public Fireworks Display (3)
Other Shooting Type (23)
Other Type Firework (39)
Unknown (25)

The Sedgwick County Fire District offers these important fireworks safety tips:

•Small children should not handle fireworks; even sparklers can be harmful if mishandled.

•Older children and young adults should be monitored by an adult when handling fireworks.

•Always keep a bucket of water or a hose nearby.

•Take old or illegal fireworks to a fire station or soak them in water until they unravel.

•Follow the directions on the packages closely.

•Do not hold fireworks that have been ignited.

•Try to light fireworks on gravel, concrete or a hard surface that will not ignite.

•Keep fireworks away from dry grass, hay, trees and all structures.

•Do not use “sky lanterns” or “fire lanterns” - only the wind controls where this type of firework blows and lands, which is often on rooftops.

•Pay attention to dry, windy conditions and to burn bans - do not ignite fireworks during these times.

Galichia Heart Hospital hopes you have a safe Fourth of July. But if you need us, our Emergency Room is open 24 hours and we will see you promptly and professionally. Questions? Call us at (316) 858-2610.