“standard” fireworks license only allows vendors to sell fireworks during the three-week period before November 5, a few days before New Year’s, Diwali, and Chinese New Year. If we are considering what to buy first, the most important thing to look for is whether the fireworks are compliant with British Standard BS7114. This number must be printed on the box or packaging and show that the product complies with strict safety standards. If you don’t see this number, leave it alone. These fireworks shouldn’t even be for sale, but unfortunately, non-regulatory fireworks still slip through the net. Fireworks are divided into four categories, only two of which really interest us here. The first category is for categories like indoor Hochzeitsfeuerwerk, and the fourth is for professional display items. So most of what you see in stores will fall into categories two and three.
The main criteria for class II fireworks are that the wick must burn for a period of three to 13 seconds and that it must be visible from a distance of at least five meters. For type 3, the fuse is 5 to 15 seconds, and the viewing distance is 25 meters. There are also criteria for debris fallout areas, but these are the main defining criteria. You tend to buy second-class fireworks in smaller display cases sold by traditional vendors such as newsstands and supermarkets. The most spectacular items in category three are often sold individually and are often found in more specialized
stores.
A very simple but quite reliable trick to gauge the value and performance of a firework is to feel its weight. In general, the heavier the fireworks, the better they look. This is not an absolute rule, but it is a very good rule. Having been in business for 40 years now, I like to think I’ve received a fair amount of feedback on the DIY fireworks theme, and what comes up time and time again is that most fireworks exist too long, with too many “same” betriebsfest ideen! Problems can easily be solved with a little planning. Instead of the usual scenario in which six people all show up with a small box of fireworks, most likely from a non-specialist store, that will deflate and explode on a dull screen, why not collect one? agreed amount from each guest instead, go to a professional dealer and buy some truly spectacular fireworks. People will then see a shorter but much better screen.
We now have a group of regular customers who give us their budget every year and count on us to build them a memorable launch. It can be difficult at first to convince them to spend £40-140 on a fireworks display, but almost without exception, once they’ve gone this route, they’ll never look back!
So here it is: buy the best and safest fireworks you can, preferably from a store that actually knows something about the product and has a reputation they want to uphold. Buying one and getting one free is not always the best option. Remember the old adage: “The person who calculates the cost of everything does not know the value of anything.”
Tips for a great fireworks show
There’s something so magical about fireworks, especially when it’s on a grand scale. The 2009 New Year’s performance in London cost £1.6 million and lasted just 10 minutes. But watching fireworks with friends and family in your own backyard can also be quite spectacular. If you’re hosting your own bonfire party this year, your budget may be smaller, but there’s no reason why the party shouldn’t be the same. There is one essential key to a successful party and that is safety. Fireworks can be fun and wonderful if you give them the respect they deserve. Otherwise, they will bite and you will get severe burns or worse. So, with that said, here’s a quick guide to a safe fireworks display.
What should you buy?
If you’re having a backyard party, I suppose you might want about 30 minutes of entertainment, including light time. As a rough guide, the Catherine Wheel, Fountain, and Roman Candle last about 20-40 seconds each after lighting. On the other hand, the rocket lasts less than 10 seconds! You’ll find that most major supermarkets have a wide range of fireworks with prices ranging from around £1 to £7 or £8 for single items and up to £10 for bundles. You can also find fireworks in small shops in your area, but make sure these have the BS7114 safety standard mark as all fireworks sellers must be licensed to do so.
Want to make a campfire?
If campfires are your thing, make sure it’s a safe distance from houses, fences, and trees. Always light with lighters and never with flammable liquids. Burn only wood and paper, making sure not to add anything once the fire has started.
Law of lighting
A designated person must light all fireworks, a safe distance from the audience. Read the packaging for tips on using a flashlight to do this. Also, make sure you have a bucket of water or sand nearby just in case. Wearing protective glasses and gloves will also be advised. Additional safety tips are as follows:-
Keep fireworks in an airtight container until ready to use. Always light fireworks within reach using a cone. Never go back to where the fireworks went off. Never put fireworks in your pocket and never throw them. Never let children handle fireworks. So make sure you’re safe and sure you’ll have a great time with your family and friends and enjoy the show.