A firework is classified as a high explosive pyrotechnic device used primarily for aesthetic and entertainment purposes. In the United States, Independence Day, commonly known as the Fourth of July (or the Fourth) is a Federal holiday commemorating the adoption This article is about the Mexican city for other uses see Monterrey (disambiguation. The Universal Forum of Cultures Monterrey 2007 was an international civil-society event that took place in the city of Monterrey, Mexico, starting on September and An explosive material is a material that either is chemically or otherwise Energetically unstable or produces a sudden expansion of the material usually accompanied The term "pyrotechnics" can also be used for Fireworks events The most common use of a firework is as part of a fireworks display. A fireworks event (also called a fireworks show or pyrotechnics) is a display of the effects produced by firework devices on various occasions. The term "pyrotechnics" can also be used for Fireworks events Fireworks competitions are also regularly held at a number of places. The biggest fireworks event in the world is held in Madeira, Portugal at the New Years' Eve celebrations, as referred in the Guinness World Records. "The world " is a proper noun for the planet Earth envisioned from an Anthropocentric or Human Worldview, as a place History See also History of Madeira Pre-Portuguese times Pliny mentions certain Purple Islands the position of which with reference to the Portugal, officially the Portuguese Republic (República Portuguesa is a country on the Iberian Peninsula. Guinness World Records, known until 2000 as The Guinness Book of Records (and in previous U
Fireworks (devices) take many forms to produce the four primary effects: noise, light, smoke, and floating materials (confetti for example). Confetti (the singular form is confetto) is a multitude of pieces of Paper or metallic material which is They may be designed to burn with colored flames and sparks. Displays are common throughout the world and are the focal point of many different cultural and religious celebrations. A party is a Social gathering for Celebration and Recreation.
Fireworks were originally invented by the Chinese, for entertainment purposes, as a natural extension of the Chinese invention of gunpowder. Gunpowder is a an explosive mixture of Sulfur, Charcoal and Potassium nitrate (also known as saltpetre/saltpeter that burns rapidly producing volumes In China, they were first made by firework masters who were well respected for their knowledge of the many complex techniques used to create truly dazzling firework displays. Such important events and festivities as New Year's and the Mid-Autumn Moon Festival were and still are times when fireworks are guaranteed sights. China is the largest manufacturer and exporter of fireworks in the world. China is estimated to have exported over 6 million cases or 120,000 tons of fireworks to the US in 2005. *
Fireworks are generally classified as to where they perform, either as a ground or aerial firework. In the latter case they may provide their own propulsion (skyrocket) or be shot into the air by a mortar (aerial shell). Air propulsion is the act of moving an object through the air A skyrocket is a type of Firework that uses a Solid rocket motor to rise quickly into the sky A mortar is a muzzle-loading Indirect fire weapon that fires shells at low velocities short ranges and high-arcing ballistic trajectories A shell is a payload-carrying Projectile, which as opposed to shot, contains an explosive or other filling though modern usage includes large solid projectiles
The most common feature of fireworks is a paper or pasteboard tube or casing filled with the combustible material, often pyrotechnic stars. Combustion or burning is a complex sequence of Exothermic chemical reactions between a Fuel and an Oxidant accompanied by the production of Pyrotechnic stars are pellets or simply pieces of pyrotechnic composition which may contain metal powders salts or other compounds that when ignited burn a certain colour or exude a A number of these tubes or cases are often combined so as to make, when kindled, a great variety of sparkling shapes, often variously colored. The skyrocket is a common form of firework, although the first skyrockets were used in war. War is an international relations Dispute, characterized by organized Violence between National Military units The aerial shell, however, is the backbone of today's commercial aerial display, and a smaller version for consumer use is known as the festival ball in the United States. Such rocket technology has also been used for the delivery of mail by rocket and is used as propulsion for most model rockets. A rocket or rocket vehicle is a Missile, Aircraft or other Vehicle which obtains Thrust by the reaction of the Rocket mail is the delivery of Mail by Rocket or Missile. The rocket would land by deploying an internal parachute upon arrival A Model rocket is a small Rocket capable of being launched vertically by a hobbyist or amateur to generally low altitudes (usually to around 300-500 m (1000-1500 ft for
Improper use of fireworks may be dangerous, both to the person operating them (risks of burns and wounds) and to bystanders; in addition, they may start a fire if landing on flammable material. A burn is a type of Injury that may be caused by Heat, cold, Electricity, Chemicals, Light, Radiation, or In Medicine, a wound is a type of Injury in which the Skin is torn cut or punctured (an open wound or where blunt force trauma Flammability is the ease with which a substance will ignite causing Fire or Combustion. For this reason, the use of fireworks is generally legally restricted. In the United States, fireworks are classified as either consumer or display fireworks based upon the amount of pyrotechnic composition an item contains. Display fireworks are restricted by law for use by professionals. This article is about people called professionals For the Movie, see The Professional or Leon. Consumer items are available to the public and are smaller versions containing limited amounts of material to reduce potential dangers.
History
The earliest unequivocal documentation of fireworks dates back to 12th century China,[1] where they were first used to frighten away evil spirits with their loud sound ("bian pao") and also to pray for happiness and prosperity. Epcot is a Theme park at the Walt Disney World Resort. The park is dedicated to international Culture and technological Innovation. ARTICLE TEXT BEGINS AFTER THESE COMMENTS - PLEASE READ 1 Please do not edit the lead without reading Slovakia (long form Slovak Republic; Slovak:, long form, is a Landlocked country in Central Europe with a population of over five million
Eventually, the art and science of firework making developed into an independent profession of its own. A firework is classified as a low explosive pyrotechnic device used primarily for aesthetic and entertainment purposes In ancient China, pyrotechnicians (firework-masters) were well-respected for their knowledge and skill to mount dazzling displays of light and sound. Chinese civilization originated in various city-states along the Yellow River ( valley in the Neolithic era Fireworks may have also led to the use of military rockets in China. A rocket or rocket vehicle is a Missile, Aircraft or other Vehicle which obtains Thrust by the reaction of the It was recorded in 1264 that the speed of the rocket-propelled 'ground-rat' firework frightened the Empress Dowager Gong Sheng during a feast held in her honor by her son Emperor Lizong of Song (r. Empress Dowager ( Chinese: 皇太后 Chinese, Korean Pronunciation: Hwang Tae Hu Japanese Pronunciation: Kōtaigō Vietnamese Pronunciation Emperor Lizong 理宗 (1205 - 1264 was the 14th emperor of the Song Dynasty of China, and the fifth emperor of the Southern Song 1224–1264). [2] By the 14th century, rocket propulsion had become common in warfare, as evidenced by the Huolongjing compiled by Liu Ji (1311–1375) and Jiao Yu (fl. The Huolongjing ( Wade-Giles: Huo Lung Ching; Traditional Chinese: 火龍經 rendered by its translator into English as Liu Ji ( July 1 1311 — 16 May 1375) Courtesy name Bowen (伯温 Posthumous name Wencheng (文成 Jiao Yu ( Traditional and Simplified Chinese: 焦玉 Wade-Giles: Chiao Yü, Hanyu Pinyin: Jiāo Yù) was a Chinese c. 1350–1412). [3]
Cultural contexts
Since then, any event—a birth, death, wedding, coronation, or New Year's Eve celebration—has become a fitting occasion for noisemakers. Childbirth (also called labour, birth, partus or parturition) is the culmination of a Human Pregnancy or Death is the termination of the biological functions that define living Organisms It refers both to a specific A wedding is the Ceremony in which two people are united in Marriage. A coronation is a ceremony marking the investiture of a Monarch with regal power specifically involving the placement of a crown upon his or her head and the New Year's Eve is on December 31, the final day of the Gregorian year and the day before New Year's Day.
Amédée-François Frézier published a "Treatise on Fireworks" in 1706. Amédée-François Frézier ( 1682 - October 26, 1773) was a French military engineer mathematician spy and explorer who is best remembered for In this treatise, Frézier studied the recreational and ceremonial uses of fireworks, rather than their military uses. The book became a standard text for fireworks makers.
Music for the Royal Fireworks was composed by George Frideric Handel in 1749 to celebrate the peace Treaty of Aix-la-Chapelle, which had been declared the previous year. The second Treaty of Aix-la-Chapelle ( Aachen) of 1748 ended the War of the Austrian Succession.
In the USA
America's earliest settlers brought their enthusiasm for fireworks to the United States. The United States of America —commonly referred to as the Fireworks and black ash were used to celebrate important events long before the American Revolutionary War. Fraxinus nigra ( Black Ash) is a species of Fraxinus (ash native to much of eastern Canada and the northeastern United States In this article the inhabitants of the thirteen colonies that supported the American Revolution are primarily referred to as "Americans" with occasional references to "Patriots" The very first celebration of Independence Day was in 1777, six years before Americans knew whether the new nation would survive the war; fireworks were a part of every festivities. In the United States, Independence Day, commonly known as the Fourth of July (or the Fourth) is a Federal holiday commemorating the adoption In 1789, George Washington's inauguration was also accompanied by a fireworks display. George Washington (February 22 1732 December 14 1799 served as the first President of the United States of America (1789&ndash1797 and led the This early fascination with their noise and color continues today.
In 2004, Disneyland in Anaheim, California, started using aerial fireworks launched with compressed air rather than gunpowder, the first time that such a launch system was used commercially. Disneyland, marketed as the happiest place on Earth, is an American Theme park in Anaheim, California, owned and operated by the Walt A gas compressor is a mechanical device that increases the Pressure of a Gas by reducing its Volume. Temperature and layers The temperature of the Earth's atmosphere varies with altitude the mathematical relationship between temperature and altitude varies among five Gunpowder is a an explosive mixture of Sulfur, Charcoal and Potassium nitrate (also known as saltpetre/saltpeter that burns rapidly producing volumes The display shell explodes in the air using an electronic timer. The advantages of compressed air launch are a reduction in fumes, and much greater accuracy in height and timing. [4]
Competitions
In many countries, pyrotechnical competitions involving fireworks are held. This is a list of worldwide Fireworks competitions Montreal Fireworks Festival See also L'International des Feux Loto-Québec Known officially as A firework is classified as a low explosive pyrotechnic device used primarily for aesthetic and entertainment purposes The World Pyro Olympics in Manila is an annual international competition amongst the most prestigious fireworks companies in the world. The World Pyro Olympics is an annual competition amongst the most prestigious Fireworks companies in the world The City of Manila The event is the largest and most intense international fireworks competition worldwide.
Major events
New Year's celebrations
Major cities around the world host a spectacular firework display on New Year's Eve. New Year's Eve is on December 31, the final day of the Gregorian year and the day before New Year's Day. One of the first to be seen worldwide is the Sydney New Year's Eve fireworks produced by Foti Fireworks and the City of Sydney. [5]
Although it is now just a custom to fire off fireworks on New-Year's eve, in the past the idea was to scare 'bad forces' so they would not enter the new year. A ghost is said to be the apparition of a Deceased person frequently similar in appearance to that person and usually encountered in places she or he frequented As a consequence the most popular fireworks are still those that go off with a big bang or with a bright flash.
In Western Europe the sale of fireworks to the general public is usually restricted to a week before New Year's Eve. Western Europe at its most general meaning means 'all the countries in the West of Europe ' However this does not stop people buying a large volume of fireworks in the weeks preceding New Years Eve to be picked up during the selling days. The retailing of fireworks in Europe is very different from the US, due to powder weigh limits stored in each building. In many countries around the world, people use fireworks in part of the celebration of New Year's Eve.
Guy Fawkes Night in Great Britain (AKA Bonfire Night)
In 1605 Guy Fawkes and his fellow conspirators attempted to blow up the Parliament of England while the King was inside. Guy Fawkes Night (also known as Bonfire Night, Cracker Night, Fireworks Night) is an annual celebration on the evening of the 5th of November Guy Fawkes ( 13 April 1570 – 31 January 1606) sometimes known as Guido Fawkes, was a member of a group of English The Parliament of England was the Legislature of the Kingdom of England. James VI and I (19 June 1566 – 27 March 1625 was King of Scotland as James VI, and King of England and King of Ireland as James Fawkes placed 36 barrels of gunpowder in the cellars of Westminster Hall. Gunpowder is a an explosive mixture of Sulfur, Charcoal and Potassium nitrate (also known as saltpetre/saltpeter that burns rapidly producing volumes On 5 November, Fawkes was arrested and Parliament was saved. Events 1499 - Publication of the Catholicon in Treguier ( Brittany) That night is now celebrated, both in the United Kingdom and in former British colonies such as South Africa and New Zealand as Guy Fawkes Night or bonfire night by filling the sky with exploding fireworks, and by burning an effigy of Guy Fawkes on a bonfire. The United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland, commonly known as the United Kingdom, the UK or Britain,is a Sovereign state located The Republic of South Africa (also known by other official names) is a country located at the southern tip of the continent of Africa New Zealand is an Island country in the south-western Pacific Ocean comprising two main landmasses (the North Island and the South Island Guy Fawkes Night (also known as Bonfire Night, Cracker Night, Fireworks Night) is an annual celebration on the evening of the 5th of November An effigy is a representation of a person especially in the form of Sculpture. See also Campfire. bonfire is a large controlled outdoor Fire.
- Remember, remember the fifth of November.
- Gunpowder, treason, and plot.
- I see no reason why gunpowder treason
- Will ever be forgot.
- – a children's rhyme about the events, still spoken today
The town of Lewes is famous for its annual Guy Fawkes Night celebrations, and so is Llangybi. Lewes (ˈluːɨs Lewis) is the County town of East Sussex, England and gives its name to the Local government district in which it Local groups, 'bonfire societies' conduct torch-lit marches around the town, vying with each other for the best fancy-dress outfits and typical celebrity figures that are later burnt. Examples of recent figures include the Pope, Margaret Thatcher, George W. Bush and Osama bin Laden. History See also History of the Papacy Catholics recognize the Pope as a successor to Saint Peter, who Jesus named as the "shepherd" and Margaret Hilda Thatcher Baroness Thatcher LG, OM, PC, FRS (born 13 October 1925 George Walker Bush ( born July 6 1946 is the forty-third and current President of the United States. Osama bin Laden, with some spelling variations is the name used in English to refer to (أسامة بن محمد بن عوض بن لادن born 10 March
The largest and probably the most impressive annual fireworks display in the UK is however held not in November, but in early September in Edinburgh. Edinburgh ( ˈɛdɪnb(ərə Dùn Èideann) is the Capital of Scotland and is its second largest city after Glasgow. Since 1981 the world's largest arts festival has ended each year with a combination of live open air orchestral pieces (performed in the Ross Band Stand, Princes Street Gardens) whilst a panoply of fireworks are launched from the ramparts of Edinburgh Castle immediately behind. The natural amphitheatre which the Princes Street area provides creates a perfect setting for enjoying the music and fireworks.
Along the same lines, in Canada, during Victoria Day and Canada Day, many fireworks displays are seen throughout. Canada Day (Fête du Canada formerly Dominion Day, is Canada 's national day, a federal statutory holiday, celebrating the anniversary of the
This event was also re-enacted in V for Vendetta along with the children's rhyme. V for Vendetta is a ten-issue Comic book
Fireworks are now used extensively throughout the year in the UK for festivals and other events. A number of creative companies, such as The World Famous Fireworkers combine fireworks with firesculptures, music and performance to make theatrical spectacles.
Thrissur Pooram fireworks, India
Thrissur Pooram is one of the most colourful and spectacular temple festival of Kerala, India. Thrissur Pooram is the annual temple festival of the town of Thrissur in Kerala, India. Thrissur Pooram is the annual temple festival of the town of Thrissur in Kerala, India. Kerala ( Malayalam: {{Kerala in Malayalam}}; India, officially the Republic of India (भारत गणराज्य inc-Latn Bhārat Gaṇarājya; see also other Indian languages) is a country It is a magnificent spectacle with fireworks, parasol exchange competition and a splendid elephant procession accompanied with percussion ensemble.
Fireworks in the festival is the one of the greatest fireworks in India, which is held in the wee hours of the day after the Pooram. India, officially the Republic of India (भारत गणराज्य inc-Latn Bhārat Gaṇarājya; see also other Indian languages) is a country The Thiruvambadi and Paramekkavu Devaswams present many innovative patterns and varieties of fire works, which make spectators going into raptures. This famous and mighty exhibit of the magnificent display of fireworks add to the popularity of the Pooram festival.
Thrissur Pooram, the mother of all temple festivals in the state, is essentially one of spectacles. The two devaswams- Thiruvampadi and Paramekkavu- explore and exploit every source at their command to make this annual festival a memorable one. Paramekkavu Bagavathi Temple is one of the largest Bagavathi temples in Kerala. It is celebrated with a colourful procession of caparisoned elephants, parasol exchanges; drum concerts, display of pyro-techniques and refreshing scenes of public participation.
The firework shows at the Nemmara Vela in Palakkad district and Sri. Nemmara, a small village in the Palakkad District of Kerala state Southern India is known far and wide for its 'Vela' Palakkad District ( Malayalam:പാലക്കാട്) or Palghat is one of the 14 districts of Kerala state in South India. Kottaram Bhagavathy temple, Maradu in Ernakulam district are the other major firework shows of Kerala. For the town with the same name see Ernakulam. Ernakulam District (എറണാകുളം is a district of the state of
U. S. Independence Day
Each year before the American Independence Day, the Fourth of July, retailers across the nation experience a surge in fireworks sales. The United States of America —commonly referred to as the In the United States, Independence Day, commonly known as the Fourth of July (or the Fourth) is a Federal holiday commemorating the adoption The Fourth of July is a federal holiday celebrating the adoption of the Declaration of Independence on July 4, 1776, declaring independence from the Kingdom of Great Britain. In the United States, a federal holiday is a Holiday recognized by the United States Government. The United States Declaration of Independence is a statement adopted by the Continental Congress on July 4 1776 announcing that the thirteen American colonies then Events 836 - Pactum Sicardi, peace between the Principality of Benevento and the Duchy of Naples Year 1776 ( MDCCLXXVI) was a Leap year starting on Monday (link will display the full calendar of the Gregorian calendar (or a The Kingdom of Great Britain, also known as the United Kingdom of Great Britain, was a State in northwest Europe, in existence from 1707 to 1800
Independence Day is commonly associated with parades, barbecues, picnics, baseball games, and various other public and private events celebrating the history and traditions of the U. A parade (also called march or marchpast) is a procession of people usually organized along a street often in Costume, and often accompanied by Fire barbeque block party Kansas cityjpg|thumb|right|275px|A barbecue on a trailer at a Block party in Kansas City. In contemporary usage picnic can be defined simply as a pleasure excursion at which a Meal is eaten outdoors ( Al fresco or En plein air Baseball is a Bat-and-ball Sport played between two teams of nine players each S. Fireworks have been associated with the Fourth of July since 1777. A firework is classified as a low explosive pyrotechnic device used primarily for aesthetic and entertainment purposes
In many states, consumer fireworks are sold for personal use or as an alternative to a public show. Concerns about safety have led some states to ban fireworks or limit the sizes and types allowed, but illicit traffic from less restrictive border states is common. Smuggling, also known as trafficking, is the clandestine transportation of goods or persons past a point where prohibited such as out of a building into a Prison
Some of the most famous fireworks displays include Macy's - 4th of July Fireworks in New York (the largest in the country), Houston, and the Boston display on the Charles River esplanade. There are also many other spectacular displays in St. Louis, Washington D. C. , and Philadelphia. Detroit, Michigan and Windsor, Ontario host one of the largest fireworks displays in the world over the Detroit River each year in celebration of both American Independence Day and Canada Day during the Windsor-Detroit International Freedom Festival. Windsor is the southernmost city in Canada and lies at the western end of the heavily populated Quebec City-Windsor Corridor. The Detroit River is a river in the Great Lakes system about 32 miles (51 km long and 0 Canada Day (Fête du Canada formerly Dominion Day, is Canada 's national day, a federal statutory holiday, celebrating the anniversary of the International River Days a five day festival along the International Riverfront marked the 2007 opening of the River Walk along the east river leading up to the International
Victoria Day (Canada)
Victoria Day is the official celebration in Canada of the birthdays' of Queen Victoria and Queen Elizabeth II. It is a federal holiday celebrated annually on the Monday before May 25th. Colloquially referred to as May Two-Four, along with Canada Day it is one of only two holidays, in most municipalities, where the public can purchase and ignite fireworks in Canada. Canada Day (Fête du Canada formerly Dominion Day, is Canada 's national day, a federal statutory holiday, celebrating the anniversary of the
Canada Day
Canada Day (French: Fête du Canada) is Canada's national holiday, marking the establishment of Canada as a Dominion on July 1, 1867. Canada Day (Fête du Canada formerly Dominion Day, is Canada 's national day, a federal statutory holiday, celebrating the anniversary of the It is a federal holiday celebrated on July 1, annually by all provincial governments and most businesses across the country. The celebration typically includes fireworks.
Thunder Over Louisville
Held annually in Louisville, Kentucky; this event is the kick-off for the two week long Kentucky Derby Festival. Thunder Over Louisville, the annual kickoff event of the Kentucky Derby Festival, is an Airshow and Fireworks display held in late April in Louisville The Kentucky Derby is a Grade I stakes race for three year-old thoroughbred horses held annually in Louisville Kentucky, on the first Saturday in May It is the largest annual fireworks display in North America. The event lasts throughout the day, including an extensive airshow. The fireworks show itself lasts for around half an hour, along with a synchronized soundtrack through PA and radio. Several hundred thousand people attend each year, lining the banks of the Ohio River in Louisville, and across the river in Jeffersonville, Indiana and Clarksville, Indiana. The Ohio River is the largest Tributary by volume of the Mississippi River. Jeffersonville (ˈdʒɛfɚsənˌvɪl is a city in Clark County, Indiana, along the Ohio River. Clarksville is a town in Clark County, Indiana, along the Ohio River as apart of the Louisville Metropolitan area. Some also watch from the river on boats, docked in positions auctioned off for charity. [1] Eight 400-foot (120 m) barges launch the fireworks, provided by Zambelli Fireworks Internationale, from both sides of the George Rogers Clark Memorial Bridge (Second Street Bridge), and more fireworks are launched from the bridge itself. The George Rogers Clark Memorial Bridge is a four-lane cantilevered truss bridge crossing the Ohio River between Louisville Kentucky and Jeffersonville In the event's first year, 1990, only 4,000 shells were used; by 1996 4,000 shells were fired within the event's first minute, and in 2007 the crowd for the event was estimated at 800,000 people.
Diwali ('Festival of Lights') in India
Diwali is the most popular festival of India, which broadly celebrates the triumph of good over evil primarily symbolized in the epic of Ramayana in which the Hindu God Rama defeats his demonic adversary Ravana. Diwali, or Deepavali, (also called Tihar and Swanti in Nepal (Markiscarali is a major Indian and Nepalese festival and a significant India, officially the Republic of India (भारत गणराज्य inc-Latn Bhārat Gaṇarājya; see also other Indian languages) is a country A Hindu ( Devanagari: हिन्दू is an adherent of the philosophies and scriptures of Hinduism, a set of religious, Philosophical Rama ( IAST: rāma Devanāgarī: राम Khmer: Phreah Ream Thai: Phra Ram Lao: Phra Lam Tagalog: For the South Indian film see Ravana (film. Ravanaa, also transliterated as Raavana, Ravan or Customary traditions include offering prayers to the Gods in the morning and exchanging sweets with friends and neighbors. During the night the houses are adorned with small lit oil lamps and colorful lights and then the entire family participates in the display of fireworks.
Unlike Western nations, retail of fireworks is largely unrestricted in India. People have access to a variety of fireworks and most of them in urban areas set them off on the public roads running in front of their houses. In smaller towns, the large temples of the town typically have public fireworks displays. Deepavali brings the spirit of goodwill and brotherhood and is celebrated across all religions in India. Some popular fireworks include the famous 'phoolthari' or 'sparkler' which is commonly used in lighting most other fireworks. The 'Anaar' or 'Flowerpedal' displays as a large mountain of fire when lit. The 'Zameen Chakra' is a spinning circle of fire with sparks emitting from it. The 'rocket' is popular but dangerous, as it can change its course and fly into buildings. Bombs like 'Chilli Bombs' and 'Laxmi bombs' are becoming popular, but are sometimes disturbing due to their high intensity.
Maltese Petards
In Malta, local patron saints' holidays are usually celebrated with spectacular fireworks and bombs called petards or murtali in Maltese. A petard was a small Bomb used to blow up gates and walls when breaching fortifications Petardry is a popular hobby and a traditional skill in Malta, and Maltese fireworks are usually homemade. Manufacture is often high-risk,[6] but the final results are extravagant.
In the opinion of many fireworks artists, Malta is one of the best places in the world for the manufacture of fireworks. The 'Malta International Fireworks Festival', held annually at the end of April in the Valletta Grand Harbour, is a fireworks competition open to all pyrotechnic manufacturers of the world. In 2003 the event began as just a festival to showcase Maltese talent, but in 2006 the committee decided to retool it into a competition open to manufacturers worldwide. The first of these international fireworks competitions was contended by two foreign groups and three Maltese groups. The title was won by the St. Mary Fireworks Factory, of Mqabba, which won five of the seven honours, including the shield for the best display overall, with the remaining two honours being won by another Maltese competitor, St Michael's Fireworks of Lija. Mqabba or Imqabba ( English: Micabba) is a small village in the south of Malta with a population of 3021 inhabitants (Nov 2005 Lija or Lia is a small village located approximately in the centre of Malta with 2779 inhabitants residing in it (Nov 2005 The great extent of Maltese talent, however, is most evident during summer and spring, during which many cities and villages celebrate the feasts of their patron saints and local artists produce their best fireworks. The Maltese take pride in their renown as one of the foremost in the pyrotechnic industry.
Clubs
Enthusiasts in the United States have formed clubs which unite hobbyists and professionals. The groups provide safety instruction and organize meetings and private “shoots” at remote premises where members shoot commercial fireworks as well as fire pieces of their own manufacture. Clubs secure permission to fire items otherwise banned by state or local ordinances. Competition among members and between clubs, demonstrating everything from single shells to elaborate displays choreographed to music, are held. One of the oldest clubs is Crackerjacks, Inc. [[1]], organized in 1976 in the Eastern Seaboard region of the U. S.
PGI Annual Convention
The Pyrotechnics Guild International, Inc. The Pyrotechnics Guild International or PGI founded in 1969 is an independent worldwide nonprofit organization of amateur and professional fireworks enthusiasts or PGI, founded in 1969, is an independent worldwide nonprofit organization of amateur and professional fireworks enthusiasts. It is notable for its large number of members, around 3,500 in total. The PGI exists solely to further the safe usage and enjoyment of both professional grade and consumer grade fireworks while both advancing the art and craft of pyrotechnics and preserving its historical aspects. Each August the PGI conducts its annual week-long convention, where some the world's biggest and best fireworks displays occur. Vendors, competitors, and club members come from around the USA and from various parts of the globe to enjoy the show and to help out at this all-volunteer event. Aside from the nightly firework shows, the competition is a highlight of the convention. This is a completely unique event where individual classes of hand-built fireworks are competitively judged, ranging from simple fireworks rockets to extremely large and complex aerial shells. Some of the biggest, best, most intricate fireworks displays in the United States take place during the convention week.
Amateur and professional members can come to the convention to purchase fireworks, paper goods, novelty items, non-explosive chemical components and much more at the PGI trade show. Before the nightly fireworks displays and competitions, club members have a chance to enjoy open shooting of any and all legal consumer or professional grade fireworks, as well as testing and display of hand-built fireworks. The 'superstring', consisting of firecrackers numbering somewhere in the millions, as well as the 'megastring' are displayed as well. The week ends with the Grand Public Display on Friday night, which gives the chosen display company a chance to strut their stuff in front of some of the world's biggest fireworks aficionados. The stakes are high and much planning is put into the show. In 1994 a shell of 36 inches (910 mm) in diameter was fired during the convention, more than twice as large as the largest shell usually seen in the USA, and shells as large as 24 inches (610 mm) are frequently fired.
Halloween
In Ireland (both the Republic of Ireland and Northern Ireland), during the Halloween season, there are many spectacular fireworks displays. Ireland (pronounced /ˈaɾlənd/ Éire) is the third largest island in Europe, and the twentieth-largest island in the world Ireland ( Irish: Éire, ˈeːrʲə is a country in north-western Europe. Northern Ireland (Tuaisceart Éireann Ulster Scots: Norlin Airlann) is a Country within the United Kingdom, lying in the northeast of Halloween, or Hallowe’en, is a Holiday celebrated on the night of October 31. The largest are in Derry and Dublin. The sale of fireworks is restricted in the Republic of Ireland, though many illegal fireworks are sold throughout October or smuggled over the Northern Ireland border. There is a €10,000 fine for possessing them, or a five year prison sentence.
Both fireworks and firecrackers are a popular tradition during Halloween in Vancouver, although apparently this is not the custom elsewhere in Canada. Halloween, or Hallowe’en, is a Holiday celebrated on the night of October 31. Vancouver (vænˈkuːvɚ is a coastal Country to "Dominion of Canada" or "Canadian Federation" or anything else please read the Talk Page The only known fireworks used during All Hallows' Eve in the United States is the annual "Happy Hallowishes" show at Walt Disney World's Magic Kingdom "Mickey's Not-So-Scary Halloween Party" event, which began in 2005. HalloWishes (known by its full title of "Happy HalloWishes A Grim Grinning Ghosts Spooktacular in the Sky" is a Fireworks show that takes place during " Walt Disney World Resort is the most visited and largest recreational resort in the world containing four Theme parks two Water parks twenty-three themed hotels This article is about the Theme park at Walt Disney World Resort. Mickey's Not-So-Scary Halloween Party is a separate-admission (a/k/a hard ticket Halloween -themed event held annually during the months of September and October at the
Singapore Fireworks Celebrations
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The Singapore Fireworks Celebrations (previously the Singapore Fireworks Festival) is an annual event held in Singapore as part of its National Day celebrations. The Singapore Fireworks Celebrations is an annual event held in Singapore as part of its National Day celebrations The Singapore Fireworks Celebrations is an annual event held in Singapore as part of its National Day celebrations Singapore The National Day is a designated date on which celebrations mark the Nationhood of a Nation or non-sovereign Country. The festival features local and foreign teams which launch displays on different nights. While currently non-competitive in nature, the organiser has plans to introduce a competitive element in the future.
The annual festival has grown in magnitude, from 4,000 rounds used in 2004, 6,000 in 2005, to over 9,100 in 2006.
Japanese Fireworks Festivals (花火大会)
During the summer in Japan fireworks festivals are held nearly everyday someplace in the country, in total numbering more than 200 during the month of August. The festivals consist of large fireworks shows, the largest of which use between 100,000 and 120,000 rounds (Tondabayashi, Osaka), and can attract more than 800,000 spectators. is a city located in Osaka, Japan. As of 2008, the city has an estimated Population of 121888 and the density of 3070 Street vendors set up stalls to sell various drinks and staple Japanese food (such as Yakisoba, Okonomiyaki, Takoyaki, shaved ice), and traditionally held festival games, such as Kingyo-sukui, or Goldfish-catching. literally "fried noodles" is a dish often sold at festivals in Japan but originates from China. (literally fried or baked Octopus) is a popular Japanese Dumpling made of batter, diced or whole baby octopus Tempura scraps ( tenkasu
Both men and women don Yukata, summer Kimono (women only), or Jinbei (men only) and attend these events, collecting in large social circles of family or friends to sit picnic-like, eating and drinking, while watching the show. is a Japanese summer Garment. People wearing yukata are a common sight at Fireworks displays Bon-odori festivals and other summer events The is the National costume of Japan. Originally the word "kimono" literally meant thing to wear ( ki wearing and mono thing but now has come A jinbei (甚平 also jimbei; alternative spelling 甚兵衛 sometimes referred to as hippari, is a kind of traditional Japanese clothing
Uses other than public displays
Consumer fireworks are fireworks the general public can buy. Consumer fireworks are Fireworks sold to the general public for use They typically involve using a punk to light them with and have less explosive power than professional fireworks, but can still produce a decent show. "Punks" directs to the Punk subculture and for more information on the music see Punk rock. Some examples of consumer fireworks are firecrackers, rockets, and smoke balls.
Fireworks can also be used in an agricultural capacity as bird scarers. A bird scarer is any one of a number devices designed to scare birds usually employed by Farmers to dissuade birds from eating recently planted arable crops
Fireworks classifications in the United States
The United States government has classified fireworks and similar devices according to their potential hazards.
Previous US Department of Transportation (DOT) explosives classifications
Explosives, including fireworks, were previously divided into four classifications for transportation purposes by the DOT. In the United States, Independence Day, commonly known as the Fourth of July (or the Fourth) is a Federal holiday commemorating the adoption The United States Department of Transportation ( DOT) is a federal Cabinet department of the United States government concerned with Transportation
- Class A explosives included high explosives such as dynamite, TNT, blasting caps, packages of flash powder, bulk packages of black powder and blasting agents such as ANFO and other slurry types of explosives. An explosive material is a material that either is chemically or otherwise Energetically unstable or produces a sudden expansion of the material usually accompanied Dynamite is an explosive based on the explosive potential of Nitroglycerin, initially using Diatomaceous earth (kieselgur US Spelling kieselguhr Trinitrotoluene ( TNT) is a Chemical compound with the formula C6H2(NO23CH3 A blasting cap is a small Explosive device generally used to detonate a larger more powerful Explosive such as Dynamite. Flash powder is a Pyrotechnic composition, a mixture of Oxidizer and metallic Fuel which burns quickly and if confined will produce a loud report Gunpowder is a an explosive mixture of Sulfur, Charcoal and Potassium nitrate (also known as saltpetre/saltpeter that burns rapidly producing volumes ANFO (or AN/FO, for ammonium nitrate / fuel oil) is a widely used Explosive mixture
- Class B explosives included low explosives such packages of flash powder and "special" fireworks" which were the larger and more powerful fireworks used at most public displays. An explosive material is a material that either is chemically or otherwise Energetically unstable or produces a sudden expansion of the material usually accompanied Flash powder is a Pyrotechnic composition, a mixture of Oxidizer and metallic Fuel which burns quickly and if confined will produce a loud report
- Class C explosives included other low explosives such as igniters, fuses and "common fireworks", which were the smaller and less powerful fireworks available for sale to and use by the general public. An explosive material is a material that either is chemically or otherwise Energetically unstable or produces a sudden expansion of the material usually accompanied
At the time most purchases and use of all of these explosives, with specific exceptions for high explosives purchased and used in state, black powder used for sporting purposes and common fireworks, required either a Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco and Firearms {previous name for Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF)} license or permit to purchase and use, and/or a state or local license or permit to purchase and use. The Bureau of Alcohol Tobacco Firearms and Explosives (abbreviated ATF) is a specialized federal law enforcement and regulatory organization within the United
New explosives classes
The U. S. government now uses the United Nations explosives shipping classification system. The United Nations ( UN) is an International organization whose stated aims are to facilitate cooperation in International law, International security The matrix of the various United Nations Explosives shipping classification system and typical uses This new system is based on hazard in shipping only, vs. the old USA system of both shipping and use hazards. The BATF and most states performed a direct substitution of Shipping Class 1. The Bureau of Alcohol Tobacco Firearms and Explosives (abbreviated ATF) is a specialized federal law enforcement and regulatory organization within the United 3 for Class B, and Shipping Class 1. 4 for Class C. This allows some hazardous items that would have previously been classified as Class B and regulated to be classified as Shipping Class 1. 4 due to some packaging method that confines any explosion to the package. Being Shipping Class 1. 4, they can now be sold to the general public and are unregulated by the BATF.
A code number and suffix (such as 1. 3G) is not enough to fully describe a material and how it is regulated, especially in Shipping Class 1. 4G. It also must have a UN Number that exactly describes the material. For example, common consumer fireworks are UN0336, or Shipping Class 1. 4G UN0336.
Here are some common fireworks classes:
- Class 1. 1G (Mass Explosion Possible:Pyrotechnics) UN0094 Flashpowder
- Class 1. 1G (Mass Explosion Possible:Pyrotechnics) UN0333 Fireworks (Salutes in bulk or in manufacture)
- Class 1. 2G (Projection but not mass explosion:Pyrotechnics) UN0334 Fireworks (Rarely used)
- Class 1. 3G (Fire, Minor Blast:Pyrotechnics) UN0335 Fireworks (Most Display Fireworks) Current federal law states that (without appropriate ATF license/permit) the possession or sale of any display/professional fireworks is a felony punishable by up to 5 years in prison. Although some large firecraker items may be called "M-80's", "M-1000's", "Cherry bombs" or "Silver Salutes" by the manufacturer, they must contain less than 50-milligrams of flash or other explosive powder in order to be legally sold to consumers in the United States. M-80 s are a class of large Firecrackers sometimes called salutes. Cherry Bombs (picture (aka "Globe Salutes" are approximately spherical shaped exploding Fireworks ranging in size from three-quarters-inch to one-and-one-half-inch In Pyrotechnics a salute is a device primarily designed to make a loud Report (bang rather than have a visual effect
- any ground salute device with over 50 milligrams of explosive composition
- torpedoes (except for railroad signaling use)
- multi-tube devices containing over 500 grams of pyrotechnic composition and without 1/2" space between each tube
- any multiple tube fountains with over 500 grams of pyrotechnic composition and without 1/2" space between each tube
- any reloadable aerial shells over 1. In Pyrotechnics a salute is a device primarily designed to make a loud Report (bang rather than have a visual effect 75" diameter
- display shells
- any single-shot or reloadable aerial shell/mine/comet/tube with over 60 grams of pyrotechnic composition
- any Roman candle or rocket with over 20 grams of pyrotechnic composition
- any aerial salute with over 130 milligrams of explosive composition
- Class 1. 4G (Minor Explosion Hazard Confined To Package:Pyrotechnics) UN0336 Fireworks (Consumer or Common Fireworks) Most popular consumer fireworks sold in the US.
- reloadable aerial shells 1. 75" or less sold in a box with not more than 12 shells and one launching tube
- single-shot aerial tubes
- bottle rockets
- skyrockets and missiles
- ground spinners, pinwheels and helicopters
- flares & fountains
- Roman candles
- smoke and novelty items
- multi-shot aerial devices, or "cakes"
- firecracker packs (see this link for various brand/label images)
- sparklers
- Catherine wheel
- black snakes and strobes
- mines
- Class 1. Bottle Rocket is a 1996 film directed by Wes Anderson. It was co-written by Anderson and Owen Wilson. A skyrocket is a type of Firework that uses a Solid rocket motor to rise quickly into the sky A flare, also sometimes called a fusee, is a type of Pyrotechnic that produces a brilliant light or intense heat without an Explosion. A cake firework, also known as a candle barrage is a Firework comprising a series of Roman candles A firecracker (also known as a cracker, noise maker, banger or bunger) is a small Explosive device primarily designed to produce A sparkler is a type of hand-held Firework that burns slowly while emitting coloured flames sparks and many effects The Catherine wheel (also Catharine wheel, pinwheel) is a type of Firework consisting of a powder-filled spiral tube or an angled rocket mounted with Black snakes are a type of outdoor Firework. After lighting the small tablet the firework starts smoking and an ash resembling a snake is expelled 4S (Minor Explosion Hazard Confined To Package: Packed As To Not Hinder Nearby Firefighters) UN0336 Fireworks (Consumer or Common Fireworks)
- Class 1. 4G (Minor Explosion Hazard Confined To Package:Pyrotechnics) UN0431 ARTICLES, PYROTECHNIC for technical purposes (Proximate Pyrotechnics)
- Class 1. 4S (Minor Explosion Hazard Confined To Package: Packed As To Not Hinder Nearby Firefighters) UN0432 ARTICLES, PYROTECHNIC for technical purposes (Proximate Pyrotechnics)
Fireworks tubes are made by rolling thick paper tightly around a former, such as a dowel. They can be made by hand, most firework factories use machinery to manufacture tubes. Whenever tubes are used in fireworks, at least one end is always plugged with clay to keep both chemicals and burning gases from escaping through that end. The tooling is always made of non-sparking materials such as aluminium or brass. Experts at handling explosives, called pyrotechnicians, add chemicals for special effects.
British fireworks classification
Britain has its own system of classifying fireworks. British law classifies Fireworks into four categories listed in BS 7114 Category 1 ("indoor" fireworks are for use in extremely restricted areas
- Category 1 - indoor fireworks, for use in small areas.
- Category 2 - garden fireworks; must be safely viewable from 5 metres and must not scatter debris beyond 3 metres.
- Category 3 - display fireworks; must be safely viewable from 25 metres and must not scatter debris beyond 50 metres.
- Category 4 - professional fireworks; these require a license to use.
Pyrotechnic compounds
Colors in fireworks are usually generated by pyrotechnic stars–usually just called stars–which produce intense light when ignited. Pyrotechnic stars are pellets or simply pieces of pyrotechnic composition which may contain metal powders salts or other compounds that when ignited burn a certain colour or exude a Stars contain five basic types of ingredients.
- A fuel which allows the star to burn
- An oxidizer—a compound which produces (usually) oxygen to support the combustion of the fuel
- Color-producing chemicals
- A binder which holds the pellet together.
- A Chlorine Donor which provides chlorine to strengthen the color of the flame. Some times the oxidizer can serve this purpose.
Some of the more common color-producing compounds are tabulated here. The color of a compound in a firework will be the same as its color in a flame test (shown at right). A flame test is a procedure used in Chemistry to detect the presence of certain Metal ions based on each element's characteristic Emission spectrum Not all compounds that produce a colored flame are appropriate for coloring fireworks, however. Ideal colorants will produce a pure, intense color when present in moderate concentration.
| Color | Metal | Example compounds |
|---|---|---|
| Red | Strontium (intense red)
Lithium (medium red) |
SrCO3 (strontium carbonate)
Li2CO3 (lithium carbonate) |
| Orange | Calcium | CaCl2 (calcium chloride) |
| Yellow | Sodium | NaNO3 (sodium nitrate) |
| Green | Barium | BaCl+ (barium chloride ions) |
| Blue | Copper halides | CuCl2 (copper chloride), at low temperature |
| Purple | Potassium or Strontium + Copper | KNO3 (Potassium Nitrate) or SrCl+ + CuCl+ (Strontium Chloride + Copper Chloride) |
| Gold | Charcoal, iron, or lampblack | |
| White | Titanium, aluminium, or magnesium powders | |
The brightest stars, often called Mag Stars, are fueled by aluminium. Strontium carbonate (SrCO3 is the carbonate salt of strontium that has the appearance of a white or grey powder Lithium carbonate is a Chemical compound with the formula Li2CO3 Calcium chloride (CaCl2 is an ionic compound of Calcium and Chlorine. Sodium nitrate is the Chemical compound with the formula NaNO3 Barium Chloride is the ionic Chemical compound with the formula BaCl2 A halide is a Binary compound, of which one part is a Halogen Atom and the other part is an element or radical that is less Potassium nitrate is a Chemical compound with the Chemical formula K[[Nitrogen N]] O 3 Charcoal' is the blackish residue consisting of impure Carbon obtained by removing water and other volatile constituents from Animal and Vegetation Soot (ˈsʊt is a general term that refers to the black impure carbon particles resulting from the incomplete combustion of a hydrocarbon Titanium (taɪˈteɪniəm is a Chemical element with the symbol Ti and Atomic number 22 WikipediaNaming Magnesium (mægˈniːziəm is a Chemical element with the symbol Mg, Atomic number 12 Atomic weight 24 WikipediaNaming Magnesium is rarely used in the fireworks Industry due to its lack of ability to form a protective oxide layer. Magnesium (mægˈniːziəm is a Chemical element with the symbol Mg, Atomic number 12 Atomic weight 24 Often an alloy of both metals called magnalium is used.
Types of effects
Peony
A spherical break of colored stars. The peony is the most commonly seen shell type.
Chrysanthemum
A spherical break of colored stars, similar to a peony, but with stars that leave a visible trail of sparks.
Dahlia
Essentially the same as a peony shell, but with fewer and larger stars. These stars travel a longer-than-usual distance from the shell break before burning out. For instance, if a 3" peony shell is made with a star size designed for a 6" shell, it is then considered a dahlia. Some dahlia shells are cylindrical rather than spherical to allow for larger stars.
Willow
Similar to a chrysanthemum, but with long-burning silver or gold stars that produce a soft, dome-shaped weeping willow-like effect.
Palm
A shell containing a relative few large comet stars arranged in such a way as to burst with large arms or tendrils, producing a palm tree-like effect. Tybee Island is an island and city in Chatham County, Georgia near the city of Savannah in the southeastern In pyrotechnics a comet is a block attached to the outside of a shell or launched freely which burns and emits sparks as the shell is rising leaving a trail in the Proper palm shells feature a thick rising tail that displays as the shell ascends, thereby simulating the tree trunk to further enhance the "palm tree" effect. One might also see a burst of color inside the palm burst (given by a small insert shell) to simulate coconuts.
Ring
A shell with stars specially arranged so as to create a ring. Variations include smiley faces, hearts, and clovers.
Diadem
A type of Peony or Chrysanthemum with a center cluster of non-moving stars, normally of a contrasting color or effect. The name comes from the Latin word for "jewel".
Kamuro
A dense burst of glittering silver or gold stars which leave a heavy glitter trail. The name refers to a common Japanese hairstyle.
Crossette
A shell containing several large stars that travel a short distance before breaking apart into smaller stars with a loud crackling sound, creating a crisscrossing grid-like effect. Once limited to silver or gold effects, colored crossettes such as red, green, or white are now very common.
Spider
A shell containing a fast burning tailed or charcoal star that is burst very hard so that the stars travel in a straight and flat trajectory before burning out. This appears in the sky as a series of radial lines much like the legs of a spider.
Horsetail
Named for the shape of its break, this shell features heavy long-burning tailed stars that only travel a short distance from the shell burst before free-falling to the ground. Also known as a waterfall shell. Sometimes there is a glittering through the "waterfall. "
Time Rain
An effect created by large, slow-burning stars within a shell that leave a trail of large glittering sparks behind and make a very loud sizzling noise. The "time" refers to the fact that these stars burn away gradually, as opposed to the standard brocade "rain" effect where a large amount of glitter material is released at once.
Multi-Break shells
A large shell containing several smaller shells of various sizes and types. The initial burst scatters the shells across the sky before they explode. Also called a bouquet shell. When a shell contains smaller shells of the same size and type, the effect is usually referred to as "Thousands". Very large bouquet shells (up to 48 inches) are frequently used in Japan. For a topic outline on this subject see List of basic Japan topics.
Fish
Large inserts that propel themselves rapidly away from the shell burst, often looking like fish swimming away.
Salute
A shell containing a large quantity of flash powder rather than stars, producing a quick flash followed by a very loud report. In Pyrotechnics a salute is a device primarily designed to make a loud Report (bang rather than have a visual effect Flash powder is a Pyrotechnic composition, a mixture of Oxidizer and metallic Fuel which burns quickly and if confined will produce a loud report Titanium may be added to the flash powder mix to produce a cloud of bright sparks around the flash. Salutes are commonly used in large quantities during finales to create intense noise and brightness. They are often cylindrical in shape to allow for a larger payload of flash powder, but ball shapes are common and cheaper as well. Salutes are also called Maroons.
Lampare
A shell containing a burst charge of flash powder that sits above a container of liquid fuel, usually diesel fuel or kerosene, to produce a fireball in the sky. Flash powder is a Pyrotechnic composition, a mixture of Oxidizer and metallic Fuel which burns quickly and if confined will produce a loud report
Mine
A mine (aka. pot-au-′feu) is a ground firework that expels stars and/or other garnitures into the sky. Shot from a mortar like a shell, a mine consists of a canister with the lift charge on the bottom with the effects placed on top. Mines can project small reports, serpents, small shells, as well as just stars. Although mines up to 12 inches in diameter appear on occasion, they are usually between 3 and 5 inches in diameter.
Roman Candle
A Roman candle is a long tube containing several large stars which fire intermittently at a regular interval. These are commonly arranged in fan shapes or crisscrossing shapes, at a closer proximity to the audience. Some larger Roman candles contain small shells (bombettes) rather than stars.
Cake
A cake is a cluster of small tubes linked by fuse, that fire small aerial effects at a rapid pace. A cake firework, also known as a candle barrage is a Firework comprising a series of Roman candles In an Explosive, Pyrotechnic device or military Munition, a fuse (or fuze) is the part of the device that initiates function Tube diameters can range in size from ¼ inch to 4 inches, and can sometimes have over 1,000 shots. These are often used in large quantities as part of a show's finale. The variety of effects within individual cakes is often such that they defy descriptive titles and are instead given cryptic names such as "Bermuda Triangle", "Pyro Glyphics", "Waco Wakeup", and "Poisonous Spider", to name a few. The Bermuda Triangle, also known as the Devil's Triangle, is a region of the northwestern Atlantic Ocean in which a number of Aircraft and surface Others are simply quantities of 2. 5"-4" shells fused together in single-shot tubes.
Laws and politics
Safety of consumer fireworks in USA
Availability and use of consumer fireworks are hotly debated topics. Critics and safety advocates point to the numerous injuries and accidental fires that are attributed to fireworks as justification for banning or at least severely restricting access to fireworks. Complaints about excessive noise created by fireworks and the large amounts of debris and fallout left over after shooting are also used to support this position. There are numerous incidents of consumer fireworks being used in a manner that is supposedly disrespectful of the communities and neighborhoods where the users live.
Meanwhile, those who support more liberal firework laws look at the same statistics as the critics and conclude that, when used properly, consumer fireworks are a safer form of recreation than riding bicycles or playing soccer. [7]
The Consumer Product Safety Commission has guidelines concerning the standard of consumer fireworks sold in the US. The United States Consumer Product Safety Commission (U S CPSC is an independent agency of the U Together with US Customs, they are very proactive in enforcing these rules, intercepting imported fireworks that don't comply and issuing recalls on unacceptable consumer fireworks that are found to have "slipped through". Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) is the federal agency that regulates explosives, including Display Fireworks in the US. The Bureau of Alcohol Tobacco Firearms and Explosives (abbreviated ATF) is a specialized federal law enforcement and regulatory organization within the United
Many states in the United States have laws which further restrict access to and use of consumer fireworks, and some of these states vigorously enforce them. Each year, there are many raids on individuals suspected of illegally possessing fireworks.
In 1998, a non-profit organisation called American Fireworks Safety Laboratory (AFSL) was established to develop a voluntary fireworks standard for the US to which members would adhere. [8]
The U. S. Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) as well as the U. The Bureau of Alcohol Tobacco Firearms and Explosives (abbreviated ATF) is a specialized federal law enforcement and regulatory organization within the United S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) have general jurisdiction over what types of fireworks may be legally sold in the United States. The United States Consumer Product Safety Commission (U S CPSC is an independent agency of the U The federal law is only the minimum standard however, and each state is free to enact laws that are more stringent if they so choose. Citing concerns over fireworks safety, some states, such as California, have enacted legislation restricting fireworks usage to devices that do not leave the ground, such as fountains, while states such as New York , Massachusetts, and Delaware ban all consumer fireworks completely. California ( is a US state on the West Coast of the United States, along the Pacific Ocean. New York ( is a state in the Mid-Atlantic and Northeastern regions of the United States and is the nation's third most populous The Commonwealth of Massachusetts ( is a state located in the New England region of the northeastern United States. Delaware ( is a state located on the Atlantic Coast in the Mid-Atlantic region of the United States. Arizona allows only sparklers. The State of Arizona ( is a state located in the southwestern region of the United States. On the other hand, states such as South Carolina and Tennessee allow most or all legal consumer fireworks to be sold and used throughout the year. South Carolina ( is a state in the southern region ( Deep South) of the United States of America. Tennessee ( is a state located in the Southern United States. New Mexico in some cases, will not allow fireworks from individual residents if the fireworks are said to detonate over 5 feet (1. 5 m) in height.
Pennsylvania is somewhere in between. The Commonwealth of Pennsylvania ( often colloquially referred to as PA (its abbreviation by natives and Northeasterners is a state located in the Northeastern The law only allows fireworks that don't leave the ground to be sold and used by residents. Yet residents from out of state and Pennsylvania residents with a permit can buy any consumer fireworks from an outlet.
Differences in legislation among states have led many fireworks dealers to set up shop along state borders in order to attract customers from neighboring states where fireworks are restricted. Some Native American tribes on reservation lands show similar behavior, often selling fireworks that are not legal for sale outside of the reservation. Native Americans in the United States are the indigenous peoples from the regions of North America now encompassed by the continental United States
The type of fireworks sold in the United States vary widely, from fireworks which are legal under federal law, all the way to illegal explosive devices/professional fireworks that are sold on the black market. Both the illicit manufacture and diversion of illegal explosives to the consumer market have become a growing problem in recent years.
Safety of display fireworks in USA
Federal, state, and local authorities govern the use of display fireworks in the United States. At the federal level, the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) sets forth a set of laws which give the minimum standards of display fireworks use and safety in the USA. The National Fire Protection Association (NFPA is a US organization (albeit with some international members charged with creating and maintaining minimum standards and requirements Both state and local jurisdictions can further add restrictions on the use and safety requirements of display fireworks. Typically, these jurisdictions will require a licensed operator to discharge the show. Although requirements vary from state to state, licensed operators and their crew are typically required to have hours of extensive training in the safe use of display fireworks.
These laws govern the way a licensed operator must set up and fire his display. These laws can include, but are not limited to, distance from the audience, maximum size shell, firing location requirements, electrical firing system requirements, and the minimum safety gear to be worn by the fireworks crew. The above mentioned laws are explained in the NFPA 1123 fireworks code.
Safety of commercial and display fireworks in Canada
Fireworks safety is considered to be extremely important in Canada. The use, storage and sale of commercial-grade fireworks in Canada is licensed by Natural Resources Canada's Explosive Regulatory Division (ERD). Natural Resources Canada (NRCan is a department of the government of Canada responsible for Natural resources, Energy, Minerals Unlike their consumer counterpart, commercial-grade fireworks function differently, and come in a wide range of sizes from 50 mm (2 inches) up to 300 mm (12 inches) or more in diameter. Commercial grade fireworks require handling permits issued by the Explosive Regulatory Division. Since commercial-grade fireworks are shells which are loaded into separate mortars by hand, there is danger in every stage of the setup. [9] Setup of these fireworks involves the placement and securing of mortars on wooden or wire racks; loading of the shells; and if electronically firing, wiring and testing. The mortars are generally made of FRE (Fiber-Reinforced Epoxy) or HDPE (High-Density Polyethelene), some older mortars are made of Sheet Steel, but have been banned by most countries due to the problem of shrapnel produced during a misfire. In Chemistry, epoxy or polyepoxide is a Thermosetting Epoxide Polymer that cures (polymerizes and crosslinks when mixed with a High-Density Polyethylene ( HDPE) or PolyEthylene High-Density ( PEHD) is a Polyethylene Thermoplastic made from Petroleum
Setup of mortars in Canada for an oblong firing site require that a mortar be configured at an angle of 10 to 15 degrees down-range with a safety distance of at least 200 meters down-range and 100 meters surrounding the mortars, plus distance adjustments for wind speed and direction. In June of 2007, the ERD approved circular firing sites for use with vertically fired mortars with a safety distance of at least 175 meter radius, plus distance adjustments for wind speed and direction. [10]
Loading of shells is a delicate process, and must be done with caution, and a loader must ensure not only the mortar is clean, but also make sure that no part of their body is directly over the mortar in case of a premature fire. Wiring the shells is a painstaking process; whether the shells are being fired manually or electronically, any "chain fusing" or wiring of electrical ignitors, care must be taken to prevent the fuse (an electrical match, often incorrectly called a squib) from igniting. A squib is a small Explosive device used in a wide range of industries from special effects to military applications If the setup is wired electrically, the electrical matches are usually plugged into a "firing rail" or "breakout box" which runs back to the main firing board; from there, the Firing Board is simply hooked up to a car battery, and can proceed with firing the show when ready.
Since commercial-grade fireworks are so much larger and more powerful, setup and firing crews are always under great pressure to ensure they safely set up, fire, and clean up after a show.
Safety of Consumer Fireworks In Britain
Safety of Consumer Fireworks in England, Scotland and Wales is always a widely discussed topic around Bonfire Night, November 5th. The most common injuries are burns from hand-held fireworks such as sparklers. There are also injuries due to people being hit by projectiles fired from fireworks, although these can usually be explained by people setting up fireworks incorrectly. Other issues include the dangers of falling rocket sticks, especially from larger rockets containing metal motors. "Shock" adverts have been used for many years in an attempt to restrict injuries from fireworks, especially targeted at young people. The vast majority of fireworks are "Category 3," all of which state that spectator must be at least 25 metres away when the firework is fired. This is a safety concern as few people have access to that amount of private space.
Safety of commercial and display fireworks in Britain
In the UK, responsibility for the safety of firework displays is shared between the Health and Safety Executive, fire brigades and local authorities. The Health and Safety Executive (HSE is a United Kingdom Non-departmental public body. Currently, there is no national system of licencing for fireworks operators, but in order to purchase display fireworks, operators must have licenced explosives storage and public liability insurance. All reputable companies are members of either the Explosives Industry Group (EIG) of the Confederation of British Industry or the British Pyrotechnics Association (BPA). The Confederation of British Industry is a not for profit organisation incorporated by Royal charter which promotes the interests
Pollution
Fireworks produce smoke and dust that may contain residues of heavy metals, sulfur-coal compounds and some low concentration toxic chemicals. These by-products of fireworks combustion will vary depending on the mix of ingredients of a particular firework. (The color green, for instance, may be produced by adding the various compounds and salts of Barium, some of which are toxic, and some of which are not. Barium (ˈbɛəriəm is a Chemical element. It has the symbol Ba, and Atomic number 56 ) Some fisherman have noticed and reported to environmental authorities that firework residues can hurt fish and other waterlife because some may contain toxic compounds such as antimony sulfide. Antimony (IPA (Received Pronunciation, /ˈæntɪmoʊni/ (US is a Chemical element with the symbol Sb (stibium meaning "mark" and This is a subject of much debate due to the fact that large-scale pollution from other sources makes it difficult to measure the amount of pollution that comes specifically from fireworks. The possible toxicity of any fallout may also be affected by the amount of gunpowder used, type of oxidizer, colors produced and launch method. Gunpowder is a an explosive mixture of Sulfur, Charcoal and Potassium nitrate (also known as saltpetre/saltpeter that burns rapidly producing volumes
Pollutants from fireworks raise concerns because of potential health risks associated with hazardous by-products. For most people the effects of exposure to low levels of toxins from many sources over long periods are unknown. For persons with asthma or multiple chemical sensitivity the smoke from fireworks may aggravate existing health problems. Asthma is a chronic Condition involving the Respiratory system in which the airways occasionally constrict become inflamed, and are Environmental pollution is also a concern because heavy metals and other chemicals from fireworks may contaminate water supplies and because fireworks combustion gases might contribute to such things as acid rain which can cause vegetation and even property damage. However, gunpowder smoke and the solid residues are basic, and as such the net effect of fireworks on acid rain is debatable. The carbon used in fireworks is produced from wood and does not lead to more carbon dioxide in the air. What is not disputed is that most consumer fireworks leave behind a considerable amount of solid debris, including both readily biodegradable components as well as nondegradable plastic items. Concerns over pollution, consumer safety, and debris have restricted the sale and use of consumer fireworks in many countries. Professional displays, on the other hand, remain popular around the world.
Others argue that alleged concern over pollution from fireworks constitutes a red herring, since the amount of contamination from fireworks is minuscule in comparison to emissions from sources such as the burning of fossil fuels. In the US some states and local governments restrict the use of fireworks in accordance with the Clean Air Act which allows laws relating to the prevention and control of outdoor air pollution to be enacted. A Clean Air Act describes one of a number of pieces of legislation relating to the reduction of Smog and Air pollution in general Few governmental entities, by contrast, effectively limit pollution from burning fossil fuels such as diesel fuel or coal. Coal fueled electricity generation alone is a much greater source of heavy metal contamination in the environment than fireworks.
Misconceptions on fireworks chemistry
Many journalists and websites misrepresent the chemical content of fireworks. This may be due to outdated information, a lack of research, or due to the potential for the rapid proliferation of factual inaccuracies on the Internet. The Internet is a global system of interconnected Computer networks Many of the chemicals used in the manufacture of fireworks are non-toxic, while many more have some degree of toxicity, can cause skin sensitivity, or exist in dust form and are thereby inhalation hazards. Still others are poisons if directly ingested or inhaled.
Some reports on fireworks incorrectly contend that fireworks contain chemicals such as radioactive barium, in effect creating radioactive fallout. Radioactive substances such as the isotopes of barium have no application in fireworks and are simply not used. Barium (ˈbɛəriəm is a Chemical element. It has the symbol Ba, and Atomic number 56 Elemental lead, rubidium, and cadmium also are not used in fireworks, and their compounds see little if any use. Characteristics Lead has a dull luster and is a dense, Ductile, very soft highly Rubidium (ruːˈbɪdiəm /rəˈbɪdiəm/ is a Chemical element with the symbol Rb and Atomic number 37 Cadmium (ˈkædmiəm is a Chemical element with the symbol Cd and Atomic number 48 Other reports contend that fireworks contain arsenic, dioxins, or other extremely poisonous chemicals, when in fact such chemicals are not used in modern-day fireworks. Arsenic (ˈɑrsənɪk is a Chemical element that has the symbol As and Atomic number of 33 Not to be confused with Dioxane or Digoxin. Dioxin is a heterocyclic, organic, antiaromatic compound Such reports are simply false and are easily debunked with the use of common chemistry or pyrotechny texts, but this does little to stop the spread of these common inaccuracies. [11]
Laws governing consumer fireworks
United States
In the United States, the laws governing consumer fireworks vary widely from state to state, or from county to county. The United States of America —commonly referred to as the It is common for consumers to cross state and county lines in order to purchase types of fireworks which are outlawed in their home-jurisdictions. Fireworks laws in urban areas typically limit sales or use by dates or seasons. Municipalities may have stricter laws than their counties or states do.
The American Pyrotechnic Association maintains a directory of state laws pertaining to fireworks.
Five states (Delaware, Massachusetts, New Jersey, New York, and Rhode Island) ban the sale of all consumer fireworks including novelties and sparklers by the general public. Delaware ( is a state located on the Atlantic Coast in the Mid-Atlantic region of the United States. The Commonwealth of Massachusetts ( is a state located in the New England region of the northeastern United States. New Jersey ( is a state in the Mid-Atlantic and Northeastern regions of the United States. New York ( is a state in the Mid-Atlantic and Northeastern regions of the United States and is the nation's third most populous Rhode Island ( officially named the State of Rhode Island and Providence Plantations, is a state in the New England region of the United States
One state (Arizona) permits residents to purchase and use only novelties. The State of Arizona ( is a state located in the southwestern region of the United States.
Four states (Illinois, Iowa, Maine, and Vermont) permit residents to purchase and use only wire or wood stick sparklers and other novelties. The State of Illinois ( roughly ill-i-NOY is a state of the United States of America, the 21st to be admitted to the Union. The State of Iowa ( is a state in the Midwestern region of the United States of America. The State of Maine ( is a state in the New England region of the northeastern United States of America, bordering the Atlantic Ocean Vermont ( is a state in the New England region of the northeastern United States of America.
Nineteen states (California, Colorado, Connecticut, Florida, Georgia, Kentucky, Idaho, Maryland, Michigan, Minnesota, Nebraska, North Carolina, Oregon, Pennsylvania, Utah, Virginia, Wisconsin, West Virginia, and the District of Columbia) allow residents to purchase and use non-aerial and non-explosive fireworks like novelties, fountains and sparklers. California ( is a US state on the West Coast of the United States, along the Pacific Ocean. The State of Colorado ( or chiefly by nonresidents) is a state located in the Rocky Mountain region of the United States of America. Connecticut ( is a state located in the New England region of the northeastern United States of America. Florida ( is a state located in the southeastern region of the United States, bordering Alabama to the northwest and Georgia to the The State of Georgia ( is a state in the United States and was one of the original Thirteen Colonies that revolted against British rule The Commonwealth of Kentucky ( is a state located in the East Central United States of America. The State of Idaho ( is a state in the Pacific Northwest region of the United States of America. Michigan ( is a Midwestern state of the United States of America. Minnesota ( Native Americans demonstrated the name to early settlers Nebraska ( is a state located on the Great Plains of the Midwestern United States and North Carolina ( is a state located on the Atlantic Seaboard in the southeastern United States Oregon ( is a state in the Pacific Northwest region of the United States. The Commonwealth of Pennsylvania ( often colloquially referred to as PA (its abbreviation by natives and Northeasterners is a state located in the Northeastern The State of Utah (ˈjuːtɔː or) is a western state of the United States. The Commonwealth of Virginia ( is an American state Wisconsin ( or wɪˈskɑnsɨn (French Ouisconsin) is one of the fifty United States of America, located in the north central part of the United States West Virginia ( is a state in the Appalachian Upland South, and Mid-Atlantic regions of the United States, bordered by Washington DC ( formally the District of Columbia and commonly referred to as Washington, the District, or simply D
For example: California has very specific requirements for the types of consumer fireworks that can be sold to and used by residents. California ( is a US state on the West Coast of the United States, along the Pacific Ocean. Consumer fireworks are Fireworks sold to the general public for use Even then each city can and often does place restrictions on sale and use.
Another example: In Minnesota only consumer fireworks that do not explode or fly through the air are now permitted to be sold to and used by residents. Minnesota ( Native Americans demonstrated the name to early settlers Consumer fireworks are Fireworks sold to the general public for use In Nebraska the sale and use of all consumer fireworks are prohibited in Omaha, while in Lincoln there is a two day selling period and in other parts of the state all of the permitted types can be sold and used by residents. Nebraska ( is a state located on the Great Plains of the Midwestern United States and Consumer fireworks are Fireworks sold to the general public for use The City of Lincoln ( Umóⁿhoⁿ: Nískithe Tʰóⁿwoⁿgthoⁿ ˈnĩskiˡðe ˌtʰãwãŋgˡðã meaning "Salt Village" for Salt Creek which was the
Twenty states — Alabama, Alaska, Arkansas, Indiana, Kansas, Louisiana, Mississippi, Missouri, Montana, New Hampshire, New Mexico, North Dakota, Ohio, Oklahoma, South Carolina, South Dakota, Tennessee, Texas, Washington and Wyoming — permit the sale of all or most types of consumer fireworks to residents. Alabama (formally the State of Alabama;) is a State located in the southern region of the United States of America. Alaska ( Аляска Alyaska) is a state in the United States of America, in the northwest of the North American continent Arkansas ( is a state located in the southern region of the United States. The State of Indiana ( was the 19th US state admitted into the union Kansas ( is a Midwestern state in the central region of the United States of America, an area often referred to as the American " The State of Louisiana ( or, État de Louisiane, pronounced) is a state located in the southern region of the United States of America Mississippi ( is a state located in the Deep South of the United States Missouri ( or) is a state in the Midwestern region of the United States bordered by Iowa, Illinois, Kentucky, Tennessee Montana ( is a state in the Western United States. One-third of the state in the western part contains numerous mountain ranges (approximately 77 named of the northern New Hampshire ( is a state in the New England region of the northeastern United States of America. New Mexico ( is a state located in the southwestern region of the United States of America. North Dakota ( is a state located in the Midwestern and Western regions of the United States of America. Ohio ( is a Midwestern state of the United States. As part of the Great Lakes region, Ohio has long been a cultural and geographical crossroads Oklahoma ( is a state located in the South Central region of the United States of America. South Carolina ( is a state in the southern region ( Deep South) of the United States of America. South Dakota ( is a state located in the Midwestern region of the United States of America. Tennessee ( is a state located in the Southern United States. Texas ( is a state geographically located in the South Central United States and is also known as the Lone Star State. Washington ( is a state in the Pacific Northwest region of the United States. The State of Wyoming ( is a sparsely populated state in the western region of the United States. Consumer fireworks are Fireworks sold to the general public for use Many of these states have selling seasons around the 4th of July and/or Christmas and New Year's Eve. Some of these states also allow local laws or regulations to further restrict the types permitted or the selling seasons.
For example: Missouri permits all types of consumer fireworks to be sold to residents with two selling seasons; June 20–July 10 and December 20–January 2. Missouri ( or) is a state in the Midwestern region of the United States bordered by Iowa, Illinois, Kentucky, Tennessee Events 451 - Battle of Chalons: Flavius Aetius ' defeats Attila the Hun. Events 48 BC - Battle of Dyrrhachium, Julius Caesar barely avoids a catastrophic defeat to Pompey in Macedonia. Events 69 - Vespasian, formerly a general under Nero, enters Rome to claim the title of Emperor. Events 366 - The Alamanni cross the frozen Rhine River in large numbers invading the Roman Empire. South Carolina permits all types of consumer fireworks except small rockets less than ½” in diameter and 3” long to be sold and used by residents year round. South Carolina ( is a state in the southern region ( Deep South) of the United States of America.
Two states (Hawaii and Nevada) allow each county to establish their own regulations. The State of Hawaii ( or həˈwaɪʔiː Hawaiian: Mokuāina o Hawaii) is a state in the United States located on an Archipelago in the Nevada ( is a state located in the western region of the United States of America.
For example, Clark County, Nevada, where Las Vegas is located, allows residents to purchase and use only non-explosive and non-aerial consumer fireworks during the 4th of July, while other counties permit all types of consumer fireworks. Clark County is a County located in the US state of Nevada. The county had a population of 1375765 at the 2000 census, and a 2006 estimated Las Vegas ( Spanish: "The Meadows" is the most populous City in the state of Nevada, the seat of Clark County, and an internationally
Many states have stores with all types of consumer fireworks that sell to non-residents with the provision they are to remove the purchased fireworks from that state. This is why there are so many stores selling fireworks in states like Pennsylvania, Ohio, Florida, Missouri, New Hampshire, Nevada and Wisconsin with all types of consumer fireworks, even though residents are limited or prohibited from buying or using those very same consumer fireworks unless they have the appropriate licenses and/or permits. The Commonwealth of Pennsylvania ( often colloquially referred to as PA (its abbreviation by natives and Northeasterners is a state located in the Northeastern Ohio ( is a Midwestern state of the United States. As part of the Great Lakes region, Ohio has long been a cultural and geographical crossroads Florida ( is a state located in the southeastern region of the United States, bordering Alabama to the northwest and Georgia to the Missouri ( or) is a state in the Midwestern region of the United States bordered by Iowa, Illinois, Kentucky, Tennessee New Hampshire ( is a state in the New England region of the northeastern United States of America. Nevada ( is a state located in the western region of the United States of America. Wisconsin ( or wɪˈskɑnsɨn (French Ouisconsin) is one of the fifty United States of America, located in the north central part of the United States
Many Native American Tribes have consumer fireworks stores on reservation lands that are exempt from state and local authority. However, they are not exempt from federal law.
Other countries
In the United Kingdom fireworks cannot be sold to people under the age of 18 and are not permitted to be set off between 11pm and 7am with exceptions only for New Year, Bonfire Night (5 November), the Chinese New Year and Diwali. The United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland, commonly known as the United Kingdom, the UK or Britain,is a Sovereign state located The New Year is an event that happens when a Culture celebrates the end of one Year and the beginning of the next year Guy Fawkes Night (also known as Bonfire Night, Cracker Night, Fireworks Night) is an annual celebration on the evening of the 5th of November Events 1499 - Publication of the Catholicon in Treguier ( Brittany) Chinese New Year is the most important of the Traditional Chinese holidays. Diwali, or Deepavali, (also called Tihar and Swanti in Nepal (Markiscarali is a major Indian and Nepalese festival and a significant [12] The legal NEC (Net Explosive Content) of a UK Firework available to the public is 2 Kilos- 4 times the legal amount in the USA. Jumping Jacks, Strings of Firecrackers, Shell Firing tubes, Bangers and Mini-Rockets were all banned during the 1990s. In 2004 single shot Air Bombs and Bottle Rockets were banned, and rocket sizes were limited. From March 2008 any firework with over 5% flashpowder per tube will be classified 1. 3G. The aim of these measures was to eliminate "pocket money" fireworks, and to limit the disruptive effects of loud bangs.
Fireworks in New Zealand are available from the 2nd-5th November, and may be purchased only by those 18 years of age and older (up from 14 years pre-2007). Despite the restriction on when fireworks may be sold, there is no restriction regarding when fireworks may be used. The types of fireworks available to the public are multi-shot "cakes", Roman candles, single shot shooters, ground and wall spinners, fountains, cones, sparklers, and various novelties, such as smoke bombs and Pharaoh's serpents. Skyrockets, and other fireworks where the firework itself flies, are specifically banned, as well as bangers and firecrackers. It is worth noting also that sparklers may not be bought by themselves, available only in larger packets containing other fireworks. This is because of the popularity of sparkler bombs. However, several retailers get around this rule by including a single cheap non-sparkler firework (i. e a fountain) in cheap sparkler assortment packages. These rules are for the 2007 Guy Fawkes season. [2]
In Bergen, Norway, fireworks can only be purchased by people 18 or older. is the second largest city in Norway. It is located on the south-western coast of Norway in the county of Hordaland in between a group of mountains known as De syv fjell Class 1. 3G professional display fireworks are for sale, and only be fired between 6PM and 2AM on the celebration day.
In Tasmania, Australia, Type 1 fireworks are permitted to be sold to the public. Tasmania is an Australian island and state of the same name It is located south of the eastern side of the Continent, being separated from it by Bass For a topic outline on this subject see List of basic Australia topics. For anything that has a large explosion or gets airborne, users need to register for a Type 2 Licence. The Australian Capital Territory allows fireworks to be sold to residents 18 years or older during the week leading up to the Queen's Birthday long weekend for personal purposes. } The Australian Capital Territory (ACT is the Capital territory of the Commonwealth of Australia and its smallest self-governing internal territory "The Queen" in this article means the monarch of the Commonwealth Realms The Queen's Official Birthday (sometimes known as "the A similar allowance is made in the Northern Territory in the days leading up to Northern Territory Day (July 1). The Northern Territory is a federal territory of Australia, occupying much of the center of the mainland continent as well as the central northern regions The types of fireworks allowed for sale is restricted to quieter fireworks, which can only be used during the long weekend and only at the address provided to the seller.
In the Netherlands, fireworks cannot be sold to anyone under the age of 16. The Netherlands ( Dutch:, ˈnedərlɑnt is the European part of the Kingdom of the Netherlands, which consists of the Netherlands the Netherlands [13]
In Iceland, the Icelandic law state that anyone may purchase and use fireworks during a certain period around New Year's Eve. Iceland, officially the Republic of Iceland ( ( Ísland or Lýðveldið Ísland ( Most places that sell fireworks in Iceland make their own rules about age of buyers, usually it is around 16. The people of Reykjavík spend enormous sums of money on fireworks, most of which are fired as midnight approaches on December 31. For the Greater Reykjavík Area see the Greater Reykjavík Area. As a result, every New Year's Eve the city is lit up with fireworks displays.
In Ecuador, and indeed, most of South America sells essentially all types of imaginable fireworks.
See also
References
- ^ Needham, Joseph (1986). A flame test is a procedure used in Chemistry to detect the presence of certain Metal ions based on each element's characteristic Emission spectrum A solid rocket or a solid-fuel rocket is a Rocket with a motor that uses solid propellants ( Fuel / Oxidizer) Noel Joseph Terence Montgomery Needham, CH, FRS, FBA ( December 9, 1900 – March 24 1995) was a British Science & Civilisation in China, Vol. 5, Part 7: The Gunpowder Epic. Cambridge: Cambridge University Press, 131–132. ISBN 0521303583.
- ^ Crosby, Alfred W. (2002), Throwing Fire: Projectile Technology Through History. Cambridge: Cambridge University Press. ISBN 0521791588. Pages 100–103.
- ^ Needham, Volume 5, Part 7, 489–503.
- ^ Walt Disney Company (June 28, 2004). Disney debuts new safer, quieter and more environmentally-friendly fireworks technology. Press Release.
- ^ Sydney New Years Eve 2007 | City of Sydney
- ^ Pamela Hansen. Playing With Fire. Malta Today On Sunday. Retrieved on 2008-05-02. 2008 ( MMVIII) is the current year in accordance with the Gregorian calendar, a Leap year that started on Tuesday of the Common Events 1194 - King Richard I of England gives Portsmouth its first Royal Charter.
- ^ "Fireworks: safer than candles, tableware. " Dave Stoddard, Sacramento Ledger Dispatch, July 14, 2006.
- ^ American Fireworks Safety Laboratory
- ^ Natural Resources Canada, Explosive Regulatory Division. Display Fireworks Manual (March 2002 Edition)
- ^ http://www.nrcan.gc.ca/mms/explosif/pdf/bull48_e.pdf Natural Resources Canada Explosive Branch Bulletin #48
- ^ AFSL Standards listing (Appendix A) prohibited and permitted chemicals
- ^ Statutory Instrument 2004 No. 1836 The Fireworks Regulations 2004, United Kingdom.
- ^ Article 2. 3. 5 of the [Vuurwerkbesluit], dated 22 January, 2002
Further reading
Plimpton, George (1984). Fireworks: A History and Celebration. Doubleday. 0385154143. Brock, Alan St. Hill (1949). A History of Fireworks. George G. Harrap & Co.
External links
- The Fireworks Channel: Internet Videos and DVD Documentaries of International Fireworks
- How Fireworks work
- Three articles on fireworks photography from the New York Institute of Photography
- The Pyrotechnics Guild International, an independent worldwide nonprofit organization of amateur and professional fireworks enthusiasts.
- The Fireworks Alliance, a not-for-profit charitable organization dedicated to keeping fireworks legal and preserving the tradition of fireworks for all Americans.
- Illegal Explosive Devices
- About.com The Chemistry of Firework Colors
- Natural Resources Canada's Explosive Regulatory Division - Information and Licensing in Canada.
- U.K. Department of Trade and Industry firework advice page
- Method and apparatus for creating pyrotechnic effects - Patent #5,739,462. US Patent & Trademark Office. Retrieved on November 17, 2005. Events 284 - Diocletian is proclaimed emperor by his soldiers Year 2005 ( MMV) was a Common year starting on Saturday (link displays full calendar of the Gregorian calendar. — patent for Disney's powderless launch system.
- U.S. state laws concerning consumer fireworks (National Council on Fireworks Safety website)
- Tarragona International Fireworks Competition, Spain
- Phoenix Fireworks, UK
- The World Famous Fireworkers, UK
- Fireworks Display for Canada Day
- MLE Pyrotechnics Limited, UK
- Firework Visual & Noise Effects Glossary
- Make fun fireballs with string and cotton!
- vPyro - Community about Fireworks
- Firework Crazy Limited- UK Firework Retailer of the Year 2007
Dictionary
fireworks
-noun
- Plural and collective of firework.
- An event or a display where fireworks are set off.
- (figuratively) An boisterous or violent situation or event.
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