safety
An Oklahoma child lost most of their hand to a firework this week. Here’s how to keep your kids safe this July 4
By Li Cohen at WSMV 4 News (NBC affiliate)
· July 3, 2026
· 2 min read
NASHVILLE, Tenn. (WSMV) - A 12-year-old in Oklahoma lost most of their hand when a firework exploded while they were holding it earlier this week, and statistically, they likely won’t be the last to suffer injuries this July 4th Weekend. According to Johns Hopkins Medicine, nearly 2,000 children ...
Key takeaway According to Johns Hopkins Medicine, nearly 2,000 children in the U.
Why this matters in The Nashville
In Nashville , where summer celebrations often feature fireworks, the recent incident in Oklahoma serves as a stark warning. As families prepare for July 4th festivities, it's crucial to remember that fireworks-related injuries can happen anywhere, including in our own community. The fact that many injuries are caused by legal fireworks bought at local stores is particularly concerning. Parents and caregivers in Davidson County should take heed of the Consumer Product Safety Commission's recommendations, especially when it comes to sparklers, which can cause severe burns and permanent damage. By opting for safer alternatives, such as glow sticks or movie nights, families can enjoy the holiday without putting their children at risk. Additionally, local event organizers and authorities should consider promoting fireworks safety and providing resources for families to make informed decisions about celebrating the holiday. By prioritizing safety, we can help prevent devastating injuries and ensure a fun and enjoyable July 4th celebration for all.
About this story
Original reporting by WSMV 4 News (NBC affiliate) . The Nashville surfaces reporting from trusted publishers and adds local editorial context so readers can quickly understand what a story means for their community. We attribute every source, link to the original report, and follow a documented editorial standards policy. To understand how stories are selected and reviewed, read our about page .
For the complete original report, visit WSMV 4 News (NBC affiliate) . Have a tip or correction? Contact our newsroom .
Category: safety ·
Published: July 3, 2026 ·
Source: WSMV 4 News (NBC affiliate) ·
Reading time: 2 min
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Frequently asked about this story
What is this story about? NASHVILLE, Tenn. (WSMV) - A 12-year-old in Oklahoma lost most of their hand when a firework exploded while they were holding it earlier this week, and statistically, they likely won’t be the last to suffer injuries this July 4th Weekend. According to Johns Hopkins Medicine, nearly 2,000 children ...
When was this published? This article was first published on July 3, 2026 by WSMV 4 News (NBC affiliate) and curated for The Nashville readers.
Who reported this story? This story was reported by Li Cohen at WSMV 4 News (NBC affiliate). To learn more about how The Nashville selects and reviews stories, see our editorial standards .
Where can I find related coverage? See more safety coverage from The Nashville, or browse our daily briefing and topic hubs .
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