Texas man shares harrowing fireworks injury story, urges safety this New Year's Eve

HOUSTON - With fireworks celebrations planned across the Houston area this holiday season, officials and safety advocates are urging residents to take proper precautions when handling fireworks.

The Houston Fire Department warns that thousands of people are injured each year by fireworks, and experts stress the importance of safe practices. 

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"You always want to buy from reliable sellers. Don't ever try to make your own fireworks," said Sue Davis, a spokesperson for Top Dog Fireworks. "Safety rules are just common sense."

Davis also urges people to follow rules given from the Harris County Fire Marshal's Office - such as keeping a water source nearby, and not finding a safe place to ignite them. 

One Texas man is sharing his painful experience as a cautionary tale. 

Photo of Zach LaRocque, a Longview, Texas man who was severely injured while ignited a rocket artillery shell firework Nov. 2024. 

Zach LaRocque, a Longview native, was severely injured in a fireworks accident over Thanksgiving weekend. LaRocque, who had set off fireworks for years without incident, was igniting an artillery shell he had stored from the previous Fourth of July when it exploded unexpectedly. The blast sent him flying five or six feet from the tube he had dropped the firework into. He was flown to Shreveport, Louisiana, and faced multiple surgeries. 

Photo of Zach LaRocque, a Longview, Texas man who was severely injured while ignited a rocket artillery shell firework Nov. 2024. 

LaRocque lost his left hand and part of his arm, and his right hand was also severely damaged. He also suffered permanent damage to his abdomen, intestines, face, and eyes. His experience has changed how he views fireworks.

"I've lit fireworks for years. I've put on fireworks shows… I've never seen anything just go off like that. For it to just happen to me… it can happen to anybody," LaRocque said. "Don’t do it. Just go and watch them somewhere else. Don’t do it, man. Please don’t let your kids play with fireworks."

Additionally, residents should be aware that it is illegal to set off fireworks within Houston city limits. 

As the holiday season continues, officials are reminding the public to follow common-sense safety guidelines to ensure celebrations remain joyful and injury-free. You can read more about Zach LaRocque's injury here.