PITTSBURG, Kan. — To prevent unintentional fires, the Pittsburg Fire Department is giving community members buckets for smoldering firework disposal.

The Pittsburg Fire Department has launched the “Bucket Brigade” program to help prevent fires during this year’s Independence Day festivities. While supplies last, community members can collect a 5-gallon bucket from Pittsburg Fire Station 1, located at 911 W 4th, anytime between 8 a.m. and 5 p.m. Monday through Friday starting June 23.

Patrons are encouraged to add water to the bucket and soak fireworks or other pyrotechnics overnight. This prevents any smoldering or ignition when they are disposed of in the trash.

Along with the bucket, recipients will receive a detailed flyer with additional tips to help prevent fires during Independence Day celebrations.

According to the American Pyrotechnics Safety and Education Foundation (APSEF), improperly disposed fireworks are the number one cause of preventable fires following Independence Day celebrations. The “Bucket Brigade” is part of APSEF’s initiative.

“As the fire department, our number one priority is safety,” Pittsburg Fire Marshal and Deputy Fire Chief Matt Claibourn said in a news release. “We are so grateful for the bucket donations from local businesses which helped make this community outreach possible.”

For more information on fire safety, people can call Claibourn at 620-230-5625.