Ellis County Fire
The Ellis County Fire Department, in partnership with the Kansas State Fire Marshal (KSFM) and American Pyrotechnics Safety & Education Foundation (APSEF), has launched the Bucket Brigade program, a targeted fire prevention initiative designed to reduce fires caused by improper fireworks disposal following Independence Day celebrations.
The Bucket Brigade addresses one of the most common and preventable causes of post-holiday fires. Even after fireworks appear extinguished, they can retain enough heat to reignite, leading to fires in trash receptacles, garages, and outdoor areas. The program encourages residents to soak used fireworks in water overnight before disposal, a simple step that significantly reduces that risk.
“Every year, we see fires that could have been prevented with one simple step after the fireworks stop,” said Mark Engholm, Kansas State Fire Marshal. “The Bucket Brigade program gives Kansans an easy, effective way to reduce that risk. Soaking used fireworks before disposal is the kind of common-sense action that protects families, neighborhoods, and our firefighters. We are proud to partner with local departments and APSEF to bring this program to communities across the state.”
“This is a practical, prevention-focused step that residents can take to reduce fire risk in their homes and neighborhoods,” said Lyle Pantle, Ellis County Assistant Fire Chief & Emergency Manager. “We know improper disposal is a consistent issue after the Fourth of July, and this program gives people a simple way to do the right thing.”
The program has already demonstrated measurable results in other jurisdictions. In Colorado, 18 fire departments formally adopted the program, with six additional departments replicating the effort. Nearly 2,000 buckets were distributed statewide, and participating departments reported reductions in fires linked to improper disposal. In one community, officials reported zero fireworks-related calls tied to personal use during the 2025 season after implementing the program.
APSEF is dedicated to advancing fireworks safety through education and public awareness and is working with fire departments across the country to expand the program ahead of the nation’s 250th anniversary. Through its “Celebrate Safely” initiative, the Foundation provides communities with tools, training, and public education resources to reduce fireworks-related injuries and fire incidents.
Local businesses are playing a key role in supporting the effort by donating buckets for community use. Participating organizations include: Heartland Building Center of Hays, The Home Depot, Walmart Supercenter, and Westlake Ace Hardware
The Ellis County Fire Department, Kansas State Fire Marshal, and APSEF encourage all residents planning to use fireworks to follow local laws, remain aware of weather conditions, and take proper precautions when disposing of used materials.
For more information about the Bucket Brigade program and safe fireworks practices, visit: www.celebratesafely.org.