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New York man loses hand and finger in fireworks accident

It’s not even the Fourth of July yet and someone has already shot their hand off.

Fireworks accident on Long Island

A gruesome incident occurred last Saturday evening, a man from Long Island suffered serious injuries from a Fireworks explosion. According to Suffolk County police, the 66-year-old Brentwood resident was in his yard on Eastern Avenue around 9 p.m. when the explosion occurred. The blast was so powerful that his left hand was severed and three fingers on his right hand were torn off. He was taken to Stony Brook University Hospital in serious condition.

Getty Images/iStockphoto

Getty Images/iStockphoto

A sobering reminder of fireworks safety this summer

This incident reminds us of the dangers associated with fireworks. The Consumer Product Safety Commission reported almost Last year, 10,000 people were admitted to emergency rooms due to fireworks injuries. This number is frightening and highlights the risks involved in handling these explosive devices.

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In New York, the laws are clear: fireworks such as firecrackers, bottle rockets, pyrotechnics, fire spinners and flying devices are illegal. “Spark-producing devices” such as sparklers are legal in certain areas, but even these can only be used by people 18 years or older.

With the 4th of July just around the corner, safety should be a top priority. Here are some important tips to help you and your loved ones enjoy the holiday without any unfortunate accidents:

Lumberjack with prematurely exploded edge and burned man

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Fireworks safety tips:

  1. Leave it to the professionals: The safest way to enjoy fireworks is to attend a public display led by trained professionals.
  2. Legal does not mean safe: Even legal spark-producing devices can cause injury. Always use them with care and make sure they are used by adults.
  3. Keep water nearby: Keep a bucket of water or hose handy to extinguish accidental fires or immediately cool burns.
  4. Never re-ignite an unexploded bomb: If a firework does not ignite properly, do not attempt to relight it. Wait at least 20 minutes and then place it in water before disposing of it.
  5. Keep a safe distance: Keep spectators at a safe distance from the location where fireworks are being set off. A minimum distance of 9 meters is recommended.
  6. Protect your hands and eyes: Wear safety glasses and never hold fireworks in your hand. Place them on the ground and light them at arm’s length.
  7. Supervision of children: Children should never handle fireworks. Make sure they watch from a safe distance and under adult supervision.
  8. Dispose of fireworks safely: After burning, the fireworks should be extinguished with plenty of water before disposal to avoid garbage fires.

Let’s enjoy this holiday season responsibly. Take care of yourselves and make sure your celebrations don’t end in tragedy.

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Gallery Credits: Stacker