SUMMERVILLE, S.C. — A man has died after authorities say he sat a "large firework device" on his head and ignited it.
The Dorchester County Coroner's Office said the incident happened near Summerville on July 4 around 10:20 p.m. Coroner Paul Brouthers said the incident happened in the street on Cottonwood Drive in the Crestwood subdivision. Brouthers said the device exploded and caused "massive head injuries." The man was pronounced dead around 11 p.m.
An incident report filed by the Dorchester County Sheriff's Office, citing witnesses, said the community was having a block party, and the victim had been drinking since 6 p.m. The victim's wife said she saw him put the firework on his head and that it was "done to show off." The report states that she tried to get him to stop when the fireworks exploded, and the victim collapsed.
The coroner's and sheriff's offices are investigating the incident.
IMPORTANT FIREWORKS SAFETY TIPS
Ahead of the July 4 holiday, the Columbia-Richland Fire Department released a list of safe practices when using fireworks, which includes:
- Always read and follow the directions on a firework.
- Only use fireworks outdoors, away from homes, dry grass and trees.
- Keeping a bucket of water, a fire extinguisher or a garden hose handy in case of a fire or other mishap.
- Always have an adult present when shooting fireworks.
- Storing fireworks in a cool, dry place.
- Never reigniting malfunctioning fireworks.
- Wearing protective eyeglasses and gloves.
- Never hold a lit firework item in your hand.
- Only having adults handle fireworks.