A Oceanside Fire Department vehicle. (File photo courtesy City of Oceanside)
A teen boy suffered severe burns and injuries in Oceanside Thursday, including the loss of one of his hands, when a firecracker detonated while he was holding it.
The accident occurred about 9 a.m. in the 300 block of North Horne Street, near Oceanside High School.
The blast resulted in the “traumatic amputation” of the 15-year-old’s right hand, according to a news release from the Oceanside Fire Department, along with severe burns to the boy’s chest and face.
Paramedics airlifted him to a burn unit at UCSD Medical Center in San Diego for “specialized care.”
Private use of recreational incendiary devices is illegal in San Diego County.
“The Oceanside Fire Department reminds the community that fireworks pose serious risks, especially to minors, and urges residents to follow all safety guidelines and local regulations regarding the use of fireworks,” department officials said.
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