A small bomb disguised as a tennis ball exploded Sunday while a father and his children were playing a game of catch in Fairfield.

Police say the father and children found the ball and used it to play a game of catch. The father later threw the ball over his daughter's head. That's when the ball hit the ground and exploded. No one was injured.

The tennis ball bomb was found on the steps of the Eldercare Center at 240 Colony Street in Fairfield. Police said the tennis ball was filled with matchstick heads and friction caused the ignition.

Although no one was injured, police say the outcome could have been much worse.

"It's comparable to a firecracker or several firecrackers," Fairfield Police Captain Gary MacNamara said. "Depending upon how they catch it or how it exploded, you know the injuries could have been quite serious."

Fairfield police warn residents to be aware of any suspicious objects. Anyone with information is asked to call the Norwalk Police Department at 203-254-4800.