Firework Safety: Importance and Tips

What is Firework Safety?

Firework safety refers to the essential practices and precautions taken when handling, storing, and using fireworks to prevent accidents, injuries, and property damage. It usually encompasses following local regulations, maintaining safe distances, proper handling techniques, and understanding the specific characteristics of different fireworks types.

Importance of Firework Safety

The importance of firework safety cannot be overstated as improper handling of fireworks can lead to severe injuries, fatalities, property damage, and environmental hazards.

In the UK, the Royal Society for the Prevention of Accidents (RoSPA) reported that there was a 146 percent increase in fireworks-related fatalities from 2022 to 2023 alone, marking the highest rate of firework injuries since 2010. The US has also seen consistent incidents during nationwide celebrations such as the 4th of July, where 9,700 people suffered fireworks-related injuries in 2023.

Different environmental groups also emphasize fireworks safety to avoid devastating natural disasters such as wildfires and the compounding effect of air pollution on local wildlife. By emphasizing and implementing proper firework safety protocols, these celebratory displays remain a source of joy rather than tragedy, while protecting local communities, properties, and human lives.

Types of Fireworks

To better understand firework safety, it is essential to know about the kinds of fire used. Typically, fireworks are classified under two categories:

Display Fireworks

Display fireworks, sometimes called professional fireworks, are often seen in public shows and can only be used by trained professionals. Common types typically include aerial shells, cakes, and other complex pyrotechnic devices that create elaborate visual effects at heights ranging from 200 to 1,000 feet.

Unlike consumer fireworks, display fireworks are classified as 1.3G explosives by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) and require specialized storage, transportation, and handling procedures.

Consumer Fireworks

On the other hand, consumer fireworks are smaller and sold for use to the general public. Consumer fireworks are typically identified as ground devices containing less than 50 milligrams of flash powder, and aerial devices containing less than 130 milligrams of flash powder. They are usually weaker and considerably safer, though proper supervision is still required when using these fireworks.

Safety Regulations for Fireworks Use

The regulations for using fireworks may vary among different jurisdictions, so it is important to take note of local limits before attempting fireworks use. National awareness events such as National Firework Safety Month US serve as timely reminders to follow these rules and prioritize safety during celebrations. However, here are some notable safety considerations to take note of:

ISO 25947

The ISO 25947 family of standards establishes requirements for fireworks. It outlines different aspects of fireworks handling such as testing, construction, performance, and labeling of fireworks. By sectioning the different categories of fireworks use, the ISO is able to provide a streamlined regulatory framework to help enhance the safety surrounding fireworks usage and production.

Directive 2013/29/EU

This directive from the European Union (EU) aligns the fireworks-related laws of the member states to streamline the regulation of pyrotechnic articles on the market. The primary focus of this directive is ensuring the associated hazards with fireworks use are monitored properly to prevent large-scale accidents and ensure the sale of pyrotechnic materials is regulated properly for the sake of public safety.

Pyrotechnic Articles Regulations

The UK also has their own set of regulations for pyrotechnic articles. This regulation outlines the specific requirements for fireworks production, distribution, and usage within Great Britain. It includes safety provisions and the needed documentation or permits for proper fireworks usage, both for regular consumers and professionals.

Federal Hazardous Substances Act

In the US, the Federal Hazardous Substances Act is the primary regulation for fireworks use. It is a broad regulation covering different types of hazardous substances and fireworks are included as the Consumer Product Safety Commission considers pyrotechnic materials to be hazardous substances.

Consumer fireworks can be legally purchased in 49 states, as long as they have fewer than 50mg of gunpowder. They must also adhere to local and national regulations. Moreover, it is important for consumers to check in regularly with state regulations for fireworks to ensure that they are following the law within the area and using fireworks safely.

Tips for Firework Safety

In addition to knowing about regulations for fireworks use, it is important to follow other safety tips such as:

• Read Usage Instructions Carefully: Always read the instructions on each firework prior to using it. This ensures you understand how to safely handle and ignite the firework.

• Maintain a Safe Distance: Stay at least 20-30 feet away from lit fireworks. Doing so reduces the risk of injury in case of malfunction or unexpected behavior.

• Use Fireworks in Open Areas: Light fireworks in open, clear spaces away from buildings, trees, and flammable materials to prevent accidental fires, especially wildfires.

• Have Water Ready: Keep a hose or bucket of water nearby. This is crucial for extinguishing any stray sparks or fires and for dousing used fireworks.

• Dispose of Fireworks Properly: After use, soak spent fireworks in water before discarding them. This prevents potential fires from smoldering materials and makes it easier to dispose of any leftover fireworks material.

• Supervise Children: Ensure that children are closely supervised around fireworks. Only allow responsible adults to handle and ignite them.