These four men were caught on video wrecking one of their cars while recklessly playing with firecrackers in the yard ahead of the Chinese New Year holiday.

CCTV footage shows the group setting off double-banger firecrackers in front of a home in Shandong, China, on Friday afternoon, February 2, ahead of the Lunar New Year Holidays.

The four then excitedly ran in all directions to shield themselves from the dangerous explosives.

However, although they escaped harm, the second blast wound up shooting directly into one of their cars and destroying the front bumper.

Its owner was shocked to discover the playful incident had resulted in CNY 2,000 (GBP 224) worth of damages to his white sedan.

He later told local media he was returning home for the holidays to celebrate with his family.

While on his way back home, he spotted someone setting firecrackers on the roadside and, feeling mischievous, decided to join the fun.

He took out his own double-banger firecrackers, intending to add a festive atmosphere to his journey home.

However, he said he did not anticipate the enormous trouble this decision would bring.

The incident also caught the attention of local law enforcement.

The police stated that playing with double-banger firecrackers is not only dangerous but also illegal. It poses a threat to both people and property in the vicinity.

They said the men would face appropriate penalties to serve 'as a warning to others against repeating such recklessness'.

The Lunar New Year, also known as the Chinese New Year, is the most important traditional festival celebrated in many East Asian countries, including China, Vietnam, Korea, and others.

The date of the Lunar New Year is determined by the lunar calendar, and it usually falls between January 21 and February 20.

The festival marks the beginning of the lunar new year and is associated with the arrival of spring.

Celebrations typically last for about 15 days, culminating in the Lantern Festival. The festival is a time for family reunions and honouring ancestors.