Darwin says, "Accepted into the Archive (near miss)."

About a year ago, two of my co-workers decided to celebrate the 4th of July on their own. The plan? They loaded an old washing machine with several tens of pounds of firecrackers. After lighting the fuse, they ran.

Nothing happened.

About 20 minutes later, they decided that the firecracker they lit must have been a dud, and go back to re-light. Here's where I should mention both are high-school dropouts, so never got to the part of chemistry and physics where oxygen and fire get along. As they lifted the lid to the washer, the entire thing exploded, landing them both in the hospital for several days. Shrapnel from the washer spread in a 25ft radius, leaving a huge crater in the back yard.

Due to their proximity to the washer, both suffered only minor wounds and burns.

Submitted on 07/18/2009

Submitted by: Lisa
Reference:

Copyright © 2009 DarwinAwards.com

Bruce said:
Definitely Keep: Personal Account
While idiocy with fireworks and other explosives is far too common I think this one is unique enough to keep as a PA. Thanks, Lisa!

Tracy said:
Definitely Keep: Darwin Award
I agree with Bruce - too many people get hurt misusing fireworks, but this had a slight edge to the story

The Darwin Awards Gift Shop