Result of exploding a firework in your hand
The Urban Legend that you can place an exploding firework in the palm of your hand without injuring your fingers if the fingers aren’t closed results in a very bad situation. This patient experienced the ramifications of attempting this Urban Legend. He did not lose his fingers, but the intense heat resulted in second degree hand burns with 30-40cc of fluid in the blister. The wound had to remain covered for weeks.
Never explode a firework in your hand.
Fireworks Injuries
Fireworks are synonymous with the United States of America celebration of Independence Day. The irresponsible and accidental mishandling of fireworks can bring pain. On average, 280 people go to the emergency room every day with fireworks-related injuries in the month around the July 4th holiday.
Fireworks are dangerous, causing serious burn and eye injuries when mishandled or due to accidental use. You can prevent fireworks-related injuries and deaths. How? By working with a national, state or local organization where you live to promote fireworks safety in your community.
Follow these safety tips when using fireworks:
- Never allow young children to play with or ignite fireworks.
- Avoid buying fireworks that are packaged in brown paper because this is often a sign that the fireworks were made for professional displays and that they could pose a danger to consumers.
- Always have an adult supervise fireworks activities. Parents don’t realize that young children suffer injuries from sparklers. Sparklers burn at temperatures of about 2,000 degrees – hot enough to melt some metals.
- Never place any part of your body directly over a fireworks device when lighting the fuse. Back up to a safe distance immediately after lighting fireworks.
- Never try to re-light or pick up fireworks that have not ignited fully.
- Never point or throw fireworks at another person.
- Keep a bucket of water or a garden hose handy in case of fire or other mishap.
- Light fireworks one at a time, then move back quickly.
- Never carry fireworks in a pocket or shoot them off in metal or glass containers.
- After fireworks complete their burning, douse the spent device with plenty of water from a bucket or hose before discarding it to prevent a trash fire.
- Make sure fireworks are legal in your area before buying or using them.
- Never play with fire or fireworks in dry areas or where burn bans are in place.
- Always be conscientious of your surroundings and the direction your fireworks may fly.
Primary Source: https://www.cpsc.gov/Safety-Education/Safety-Education-Centers/Fireworks
Disclaimer
Using fireworks can result in loss of the hand, permanent dysfunction, or severe burns requiring multiple surgeries. Fiore Hand and Wrist is neither responsible nor liable for any injuries or damages incurred if you choose to handle or use fireworks.