Wait until dark: Let it get fairly dark before letting your fireworks spark. Once you’re done setting up for your first mini-show, make sure the audience is at least 50 feet back. Have two people light each side of the show in the order you made. Remember, if any fireworks do not go off, let them sit and then douse them with a full bucket of water. And remember, have fun!

TIPS FOR YOUR FIREWORKS DISPLAY

SITE

Your site should ideally look like the diagram above. Pay particular attention to the wind direction and if at all possible have an alternative arrangement on site if the wind changes. If you decide on a bonfire make sure that it is at least 15metres from buildings roads, railways and other public rights of way, clear of overhead obstructions like power lines and is a safe distance from petrol, fuel oil and gas installations.

WHAT SHOULD I USE TO LIGHT MY FIREWORKS?

It is best to use a portfire, Barbeque Lighter, or--for super-fast lighting--a gas blowtorch to light your fireworks. Matches and lighters can be a pain, both literally and figuratively! Not only are matches and lighters difficult to light in the wind, but, due to the proximity of your hand to the wick, you can end up with a powder burn! Even experts have been known to come away with a black thumb, if you know what I mean!

LIGHTING 2 ITEMS AT A TIME:

Unless you are a licenced pyrotechnician, it is not recommended to light more than one firework at a time. However, if you do wish to light two or more simultaneously, appoint one person responsible for lighting each firework. In this case, it is best to use items that shoot at equal or similar heights so the audience will have a focal point to concentrate on and the combined fireworks bursts will be more spectacular!

WATER PROOFING FIREWORKS

Waterproofing your fireworks is absolutely essential. They can absorb rain, dew or general dampness on the ground through the top and base of the firework - even in the Summer! We recommend you use thin, lightweight plastic bags to cover the entire firework - top and bottom. The firework will burn through the plastic without any problems. Take extra care when waterproofing set pieces like wheels to ensure they can still turn when waterproofed.

WHAT MAKES A GOOD FIREWORKS SHOW?

No matter what your budget, a good fireworks display is one with variety. Experienced pyro's know what they like & what they don't. The novice user should generally look to have a sampling from each category. A good way to begin a show is with a BANG (e.g., an Loud rocket or cake) to get the audience's attention. Then build up with a few fountains and Roman Candles. Mix in some Multi-Effects, Roman candles, and Barrages. Then, for the finale, use a Multi-Shot Cake, a large Barrage, a large Wheel, or a series of Bangs. Whatever your budget, a good rule of thumb is to start small, grow to a crescendo, & finish BIG!

ARE FAMILY FIREWORKS DANGEROUS?

In following our Safety Instructions, referring to the instructions on a firework's packaging, and by using a little common sense, you'll be sure to have a safe and sane family fireworks event. Fireworks are explosives, and there is no place for carelessless in their use. Among other things, fireworks should never be used indoors or held in one's hand, and they should always be firmly secured before lighting. The most common injuries relating to fireworks usage, however, are caused by the mishandling of Sparklers. The glowing rod of a Sparkler remains extremely hot for some time after use. Children must therefore be taught always to hold a Sparkler by its handle only and at arms length, away from themselves and others. Play safe with Sparklers and douse them with water after use.

SECURING FIREWORKS BEFORE LIGHTING:

Whereas some fireworks have plastic bases and are freestanding (e.g., Multi-Effects), others must be placed into sand or in the ground (up to 1/2 of their length) for support. If you don't have grass or a garden, or if the ground is frozen, use a wheelbarrow or bucket filled with sand. A wheelbarrow with sand or dirt makes a great platform on which to set up and light your fireworks: e.g., it's ideal for larger displays since it allows you to plant numerous fireworks at once. Using bricks to support your fireworks can also be a suitable and easy way to safely secure your fireworks.
Note: if fireworks are placed too close to one another then one item can ignite the next. This is especially true where "Fountains" and "Barrages" are concerned. To avoid having one item set off another, place a tinfoil hat or cap over the tops or the wicks of items adjacent to the one your're lighting. This way, you can line up a few items in a row and protect items down the line from accidental ignition. In general, you should remember that a stray spark can set off an adjacent firework or an entire pile of fireworks. You should guard against this by always covering your pile of yet-to-be-used fireworks or keeping them at least 20-30 feet away from the ignition area.

TRANSPORTING FIREWORKS BY CAR

It is perfectly safe to transport Class 1.4g Fireworks in your car or van. Up to 75 kg may be transported in a private passenger vehicle. As a precaution, keep the fireworks in the boot or under the seat, i.e., out of the direct sunlight. A cardboard box is often most convenient for transport and handling.

HOW LONG DO FIREWORKS LAST?

Fireworks have an extremely long shelf-life so long as they are kept dry. For ideal storage, keep your fireworks in a non-humid environment with a fairly consistent temperature, stored in a cardboard box. Do not store fireworks in a sealed plastic cooler, tub, or tupperware container: these materials prevent air circulation and may cause condensation. This way, your leftover fireworks from Bonfire night or New Year's won't be wasted!


WHAT HAPPENS IF I GET A DUD?

Though it is rare for fireworks to fail or misfire, Manchester Fireworks has always had a no-questions-asked return policy in the event that one of your items fails to work properly. Simply notify us in writing or bring the item in and we'll gladly exchange it or credit your account for your next purchase!

LOOKING AFTER THE FIREWORKS

When the fireworks arrive check to see that they are all there and that you can see no obvious problems. Repack them into the card boxes and store in a cool dry place until needed. It is strongly recommended that firers read the instructions on the fireworks and examine the fireworks in advance to make sure they understand and can proceed with the firing safely. If any more information is required remember Fireworks International have expert staff on hand to deal with your enquiries. Form a firing plan for the team to follow, basing the site layout closely on the site diagram. Remember it can rain on the day and polythene bags are almost essential to protect the fireworks. They can be quickly and easily removed immediately prior to lighting.

FIRING THE DISPLAY

Only allow the firers into the firing area and restrict their numbers to the minimum possible to ensure continuity of the display. Firers should wear suitable clothing. A protective hat, goggles and ear protection are advisable with cotton overalls (or another non flammable material) Do not use thin nylon. Always use portfires to light the fireworks at arms length. Never lean over a firework. If a firework fails to ignite then leave it well alone for at least 30 minutes.

CLEARING UP AFTER THE EVENT

Keep the firing area clear of spectators until the firers have had time to clear up. Locate and deal with any dud fireworks. These should be soaked for 24 hours to make them harmless. The spent fireworks should be collected into refuse sacks for disposal. Ensure the bonfire has been completely extinguished. It is a good idea to return to the site at first light next day to make a final inspection.

HEALTH & SAFETY ACT

Intending organisers of public or semi public displays should be aware of the requirements of the Health and safety At Work Act 1974 which applies not only to the safety of those directly involved but also to the safety of members of the public. This leaflet is intended only to provide basic guidance, compliance with its recommendations is not necessarily sufficient to meet responsibilities placed by the act on those who involved in firework displays.

CROWD SAFETY

Prevent access of spectators to the safety, fall out and firing areas by some suitable fence or barrier. Try and provide an adequate number of clearly marked stewards. Do not allow spectators to bring their own fireworks including sparklers. Make sure there is equipment available for putting out small fires (extinguishers, water, fire blankets).

ACCIDENT PLAN

Well before the day draw up a plan to cover what could go wrong on the day. define and agree ‘What action will be taken' and ‘Who will take the action' Here are some likely problems:-wind direction, accident from firework injury, bonfire unsafe, disorderly spectators.


WHO NEEDS TO KNOW