Using Fireworks Safely
Fireworks are a thrilling part of many celebrations, lighting up the night sky with vibrant colors and heart-pounding sounds that bring joy to people of all ages. From family gatherings on the Fourth of July to festive New Year’s Eve displays, fireworks add excitement and wonder to any occasion. But with all that fun comes a serious responsibility—safety. Enjoying fireworks safely ensures that the celebration doesn’t end with an accident. In this article, we’ll explore the excitement of fireworks and why following safety guidelines is just as important as the show itself.
Fireworks Regulations
Fireworks laws vary widely from state to state in the U.S., with some allowing a broad range of consumer fireworks and others restricting them significantly or banning them altogether. States like Texas and South Carolina permit many types of fireworks, while others like Massachusetts prohibit all consumer fireworks. Regulations can also differ at the local level within each state, so it’s important to check both state and local laws before purchasing or using fireworks. Always be sure you’re following the rules to stay safe and avoid fines or legal issues.
Texas Fireworks Laws
All fireworks that meet the requirements of the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) and the Department of Transportation (DOT) Consumer Fireworks definitions are specifically permitted, with the exception of small rockets. Small rockets—defined as those with less than 4 grams of propellant and casings smaller than 5/8 of an inch in diameter and 3½ inches in overall length—are specifically prohibited. Fireworks may be sold during the periods of June 24 to July 4 and December 20 to January 1.
Click Here To Review Texas Firework Laws*
Materials for Mortars
HDPE (high‐density polyethylene) consists of dense piping constructed from a flexible polymer material. Even though a small segment of this material feels rock-hard to touch, it becomes highly bendable when used in extended lengths which makes it perfect for underground pipes because it sustains earth movements. During fireworks use, HDPE demonstrates exceptional safety because its material properties allow it to absorb shock effectively when an explosion occurs inside the tube. The tube may become extremely deformed after an explosion but it will not shatter into dangerous fragments. These tubes maintain their integrity for decades through proper maintenance and they provide safety benefits. Manufacturers now predominantly offer shell kits that include HDPE mortars instead of cardboard ones because cardboard mortars can only be used for a limited number of shots.
Fiberglass tubes consist of a reinforced epoxy resin that incorporates fiberglass elements. While it looks stiff similar to HDPE it maintains a degree of flexibility. When a burst charge explosion occurs the fiberglass tubes absorb the shock and guide the blast upwards out of the tube similar to how a mine functions. Shell kits and display fireworks industry both make use of fiberglass tubes.
Can I Use PVC?
Under no conditions should PVC (polyvinylchloride) pipe be used as a launching mechanism for aerial shells or mines. The material remains extremely brittle regardless of thickness. The PVC pipe lacks the strength to handle the extreme force generated by the explosion of a shell’s burst charge which includes consumer-grade shells. When a shell gets loaded upside-down in the mortar and explodes, the burst charge will shatter the PVC into razor sharp shrapnel that flies in all directions. A person standing close by risks serious injury or death.
Different Size and Type of Shells:
Regular fireworks shells and 60-gram shells differ primarily in size, power, and performance. Regular shells, often smaller and containing less explosive composition, produce simpler effects with lower altitude and shorter duration. In contrast, 60-gram shells are the largest and most powerful consumer-grade fireworks allowed by U.S. law, delivering higher launches, larger breaks, and more complex visual effects. While regular shells are suitable for casual backyard displays, 60-gram shells offer a more intense and professional-like experience. However, due to their increased power, 60-gram shells may be restricted in certain states or local areas, so it’s important to check regulations before using them.
Look what happens when a shell is inserted upside down by mistake…
Ball Shell:
60g Canister Shell:
Fusing:
Fusing your own fireworks allows you to create a more coordinated and continuous display, but it must be done carefully and responsibly. To fuse fireworks, you’ll need safety fuse (also called green fuse), quick fuse, and ideally a fuse cutter or scissors. Begin by laying out your fireworks in the desired firing order and position, then measure and cut your fuses to connect them. Use tape or zip ties to secure the fuses where they meet each firework’s original fuse, ensuring they make solid contact without loosening. Quick fuse can be used when you want shells to fire in rapid succession, while safety fuse provides delays between shots. Always test your setup on a small scale first and keep safety equipment nearby. Proper fusing not only adds professionalism to your show but also reduces the need to light each firework individually, improving both flow and safety.
- Time fuse – thick, slow burning fuse used for time delays in aerial shells
- Visco – a slow‐burning fuse (usually green) used to make fireworks.
- Quick match/fuse – extremely rapidly burning fuse used to ignite multiple fireworks at virtually the same instant
To learn about fusing your fireworks check this out!
Making a Great Show:
A successful fireworks show needs careful planning and preparation similar to creating a beautiful Christmas display. A flawless execution ensures your audience gets an unforgettable and stunning experience. Begin your fireworks show by conducting thorough research into your fireworks. Fireworks show designers must understand each firework’s performance post-ignition including its duration or how long it lasts and its visual effect to avoid consecutive displays of similar colors while also being aware of noise levels which can affect small children and elderly audience members or those with sound sensitivities. Online retailers of pyrotechnics often upload videos of their products that serve as useful tools when planning displays.
Next, consider the location of your show. The audience should get an unobstructed view while trees or buildings do not block the display. For safety purposes maintain water access through a hose equipped with a pistol nozzle instead of using a bucket. Always check that your fireworks display meets legal requirements. Fireworks displays are typically banned on public lands and audiences larger than 50 people require permits or licenses. Organize your sequence of shots meticulously while staying ready to handle unforeseen problems. A safe and enjoyable fireworks show for everyone requires you to take these precautions seriously.
A well-planned sequence of fireworks shots ensures an exciting and engaging display for spectators. To keep your audience entertained during the fireworks show you should combine different firework effects instead of using only artillery shells, fountains or screamers. Make sure to prepare a written shot order before your show and follow it during the performance to maintain smooth operations. During the display you should get help from someone else to enhance safety and support. Prepare your fuses and racks ahead of time to prevent delays that could interrupt your show’s performance.
Things WILL Go Wrong So Don’t Panic:
Even professional fireworks operators who operate with care and experience can still face challenges during a display. Duds, misfires along with early ignitions and in-tube explosions can happen due to premature ignition or fireworks loaded upside down. If such situations occur maintain discretion to avoid drawing attention to them. Maintaining composure allows the audience to appreciate the successful parts of the show. The audience usually won’t detect if some effects fail so make sure they experience an uninterrupted show.
Essential Fireworks Safety Tips to Always Remember:
- Buy only from legal, reliable dealers.
- Always follow label directions
- Only use when adults are present
- Keep spectators at least 75 feet away from the firing area
- Ignite using a long-handled lighter, torch, or road flare
- Keep supply of fireworks in a safe area
- Use only in open area
- Never stand over fireworks when lighting
- Always brace aerial items
- Use a flashlight at night
- Keep animals indoors
- Light fuse; get away
- Don’t hold or throw fireworks
- Don’t modify or relight fireworks
- Be sure to have water handy
- Douse used fireworks in water
- Never put fireworks in glass, PVC, or metal containers
- Never carry fireworks in your pocket
- Don’t use old fireworks unless they’ve been kept safe
- Clean up when the show is over
Although fireworks create excitement and joy during celebrations their use must be accompanied by serious safety measures. Careful planning combined with proper knowledge of fireworks and proper safety measures leads to a show that delights audiences while keeping everyone safe. The best fireworks displays conclude by creating smiles instead of accidents.