Fireworks Catastrophe Leaves One Dead In Upstate New York

A Fourth of July celebration on a peaceful Upstate New York lake turned deadly when a fireworks accident caused a massive explosion. Here’s what we know so far.

New York State Police confirmed that one person died in Upstate New York due to fireworks.

Fireworks Show Turns Deadly In Upstate New York

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Around 9:40 on Friday, July 4, Delaware County 911 dispatched New York State Police at Deposit to the area of Ridge Runner Road in Hancock for a report of an accident with fireworks.

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According to New York State Police, two men were setting off fireworks from a pontoon boat on Somerset Lake.

At some point, "it appears" numerous fireworks ignited at the same time, causing an explosion.

Fireworks Cause Explosion, 1 Killed, 1 Injured In Delaware County, New York

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One man succumbed to his injuries on the scene. Another man was taken to a nearby hospital with non-life-threatening injuries, police say.

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New York State Police haven't released more information. The victim's names haven't been released.

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In other fireworks news, a Hudson Valley father was arrested after a home fire was caused by his son and fireworks.

Stay Safe This Fourth of July with These Fireworks Tips

Fireworks safety tips from the Indiana Department of Homeland Security to ensure that you, your friends, and your neighbors have a safe and happy 4th of July.

Gallery Credit: Kat Mykals

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40 Outrageous Fireworks Names That Sound Fake, But Are Actually Real

In states where fireworks are legal to purchase, stores have to rely on creative names to entice buyers. It's not like they can just go out and light off a test rocket to show customers.

Here are some of the best fireworks names we found when searching leading industry stores' online inventory.

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How Do Fireworks Get Their Colors?

Besides being a fun fact to impress your friends during the finale, knowing what makes fireworks work is a reminder of just how intertwined our daily lives are with Earth’s natural resources. Some of these minerals are considered critical commodities, meaning they’re vital to modern life and can be difficult to source.

So the next time you see a shimmering white sparkle or a deep red bloom over the Mohawk River, you’ll know: there's real science, and some pretty rare elements behind all that beauty.

It all comes down to chemistry. When fireworks are launched, metallic compounds, also called mineral elements, are heated to really hot temperatures. And as they burn, they emit specific colors of light.

The more complex the mix, the more dazzling the display.

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