A man was killed when setting fireworks Tuesday evening in Shanghai, said a spokesman with the municipal police bureau.

The accident occurred at 9 p.m. in Qibao Township, Minhang District when a middle-aged man was hit after the firecrackers he ignited blew up.

The man was confirmed dead after being taken to hospital, the spokesman said.

Setting fireworks, a tradition for Chinese to celebrate the Spring Festival, or lunar New Year, which falls on Thursday, adds festivity to the holiday but also triggers concerns and even controversy over safety as casualties are frequently reported during the season every year.