New York Giants defensive end Jason Pierre-Paul lost a finger and parts of two others in the explosion last year.
A year after New York Giants defensive end Jason Pierre-Paul lost part of his hand to a firework, he's reminding others about how dangerous they can be.
Last July 4, the NFL star lit a firework, thinking he had enough time to throw it before it exploded.
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"I held on to the firework too long," he said.
The blast claimed his right index finger and left his hand severely damaged. He showed his scars in a new PSA on behalf of the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission.
"On my way to the hospital, all I could think about was my son, and if I was going to make it," he says in the video.
Read: Family Says New Hoverboard Sparked Devastating House Fire: 'It Was Like a Firework'
People should leave explosives to the pros, he warned, and "keep fireworks away from kids."
Despite the damage to his hand, the 27-year-old continues to play for the Giants.
"I am just truly blessed to be alive," he said.
Watch: Mom Confronts Man Who Killed Her Daughter With a Firework
