Seven-year old Zane Walker can only wear tank tops for awhile, because of the burns he suffered July 4 when a firework exploded sideways and became lodged inside his shirt. (Lorri Sughroue/McCook Daily Gazette) [Click to enlarge]

A McCook boy burned across his torso by a lit firework has a little advice for firework safety.

"Stay far, far away," advised 7-year old Zane Walker.

Zane thought he was far enough away when he and his family celebrated July 4 at a friend's house. Standing about 5 feet off to the side, Zane watched as an adult lit the cylinder-shaped "Zip" firework.

But instead of shooting upward, the firework shot sideways and inside of Zane's T-shirt.

The device set the shirt on fire, said his grandmother, Patsy Evans. In a matter of seconds, it first burned his stomach, then traveled up and burned his shoulder before it went out.

His shirt was still smoldering when his grandmother, Patsy Evans, ran over to him.

At first, the burns did not appear that severe and the family applied ice, but it soon became apparent they would have to go to the emergency room.

"He was in a lot of pain," Evans said.

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At the hospital, the burns were examined. Zane was treated with a specialized cream for burns, bandaged up and given pain medication. The dressing, which must stay on for two weeks, has to be changed twice a day, along with the cream, so swimming will be out for the time being.

But the experience hasn't dampened the Zane's enthusiasm for July 4.

Although he said he still likes fireworks, he added, "I'm terrified of those Zips."