A Dublin teen has shared a gory picture of the horrific injuries he sustained after a firework exploded near his hand in south Dublin this week.
The 18-year-old had the top of his finger blasted off after the explosive device detonated suddenly in Palmerstown on Monday night.
He was released from Connolly Hospital after receiving medical treatment and posted a picture of his bloody wound.
The teen warned others about the dangers of playing with fireworks but somehow also managed to find a funny side to his life-changing ordeal.
He said: "Boys I’m begging you all to not play with fireworks.
He added: "I’ve learned that the hard way but I'm on the mend now."
He then made light of the situation, thanking everybody who had "given him a hand" during the incident but joking "it's a finger I need".
A text alert was sent around to locals warning them of the gory event and wishing the young man a "speedy and full recovery".
They warned: "Parents, please, please discourage and deter your children from using these illegal fireworks.
"Remember, they are children - you ARE responsible for them."
A Garda spokesman confirmed the explosion to Dublin Live.
He said: "Gardaí were made aware of an 18-year-old who suffered a hand injury following an incident involving a firework that occurred in the Glenmroon Road area of Palmerstown, Dublin 20, on 21/09 at approximately 9pm."
He added: "The injured man was taken by ambulance to Connolly Hospital and e nquiries are ongoing."
