Experts Demonstrate Catastrophic Dangers of Illegal Fireworks
BALTIMORE (WJZ)-- The lion's share of injuries from fireworks happens this time of year.
Of course experts tell us to be careful, but as Mike Schuh reports, it's often the fireworks that are considered the safest that cause the most widespread damage.
At a recent demonstration of the harm illegal fireworks can cause, medical and fire professionals say leave it up to the professionals.
There are flaming balls that are hot enough to melt metal or set fire to things like clothes, homes and brush. An M-80 obliterates a fake hand.
And no safety demonstration is complete without an exploding watermelon, just imagine that being done to a body part.
"To tell a parent your child doesn't see well now and has very little chance of seeing well in the future is the worst thing we can say," said Dr. Dean Fiergang.
RELATED: Man Suffers Partial Amputation During Firework Display Mishap
Just over the weekend, a man's finger was partially severed after a firework display mishap in Harford County.
Fire officials say a 44-year-old man was igniting a three-inch firework with a fuse when the firework discharged at the incorrect angle.
The victim sustained a partial amputation to his left ring finger, officials said.
As a reminder, fireworks of all kinds, including sparklers are illegal in Baltimore City.
In nearby counties only ground displays, are allowed, nothing that shoots projectiles into the air.
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