The most dangerous fireworks of all

Shell-and-mortar fireworks cause the highest number of injuries, and the most serious, to those who should know better: Adults.

More than 85 percent of emergency room visits for fireworks injuries are by adults who used shell-and-mortar type fireworks. Nearly 40 percent of all fireworks injuries come from shell-and-mortar devices, according to the American Journal of Emergency Medicine.

Although banned in many states, they are nonetheless widely available.

Shell-and-mortar devices usually make the most dramatic displays of large blooms with or without starry effects.

This type of explosive has a mortar (usually a steel barrel) that contains a charge to launch a shell. Users are supposed to stick the mortar in the ground pointed up and away, insert a shell, light the fuse, and run.

Between each of those steps there can be trouble.

The problem with shell-and-mortar devices is that when they fail, they can cause serious injuries. If they are used improperly they can cause horrible injuries.

The most notorious recent case was of a Montana man, who foolishly held the mortar over his head and lit the fuse. According to The Seattle Times, the mortar failed and the shell never left the tube. However, it did explode. He lost four fingers. He had a toe removed to replace one of his thumbs.

Not all injuries happen because of foolish acts. Simply checking to see why an explosive didn’t fire can be deadly. Always stay away from duds and spray thoroughly with water. Mortars can misfire and send a shell in unexpected directions.

Homemade shell-and-mortars cause many injuries and deaths. PVC pipe, when used as a mortar, can shatter sending pieces more than 15 feet. Inadequate metal tubing can shatter and send shrapnel many feet.

Hand injuries are the most common, followed by face and brain injuries. According to Newser, more than a third of those who suffered a serious hand injury from a firework had at least a partial amputation. At least 70 percent of shell-and-mortar eye injuries result in at least some loss of vision.

Young men are most likely to risk using shell-and-mortar type fireworks, the AJEM reported.