Buy Fireworks With the Correct Classification
Avoid Unnecessary Risks by Purchasing Correct Grade Fireworks
Firework buyers want the biggest bang for their buck. However, if they try to buy fireworks with a commercial rating but lack the necessary permit or licence, they are in danger of committing an illegal act. Even worse, they run a serious risk of causing injury to themselves or others.
Every year people are injured by fireworks. Accidents can occur despite precautions being taken. But a number of incidents occur because people do not heed the advice they are given. Anyone responsible for purchasing fireworks should know how to tell the difference between the different classes available.
Classification of Fireworks in the USA
The USA used to group explosives into Classes A, B and C. Domestic fireworks, purchased from stores, fell into the Class C (also called 'common fireworks') while Class B ('special fireworks') included those used in professional displays.
This system has now been replaced. Fireworks that can be bought from stands or stores are referred to as 'Consumer Fireworks' and carry the designation Class 1.4G. Those intended for professional use are called 'Display Fireworks' and are Class 1.3G. A permit from the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATFE) is required by those seeking Class 1.3G pyrotechnics.
The 'G' in the class designation does not refer to grams and it has nothing to do with weight. Fireworks can have their classification changed based on safety concerns. For example, large 20 gram rockets were originally classified as 1.4G but have now been reclassified as 1.3G, reducing their availability to the public.
Class 1.4G fireworks can be bought from stores in the 39 states which permit the use of fireworks. A small number of states only permit novelty fireworks, such as sparklers, and a handful have banned all consumer fireworks. More information is available from the National Council of Fireworks Safety.
Classification of Fireworks in the UK
The British operate a system of 4 categories, ranging from Category 1 for indoor fireworks to Category 4 for professional fireworks. Categories 1 to 3 are available to the general public from retailers.
It is important that organizers of outdoor firework displays understand the difference between Category 2 and the more powerful Category 3.
Category 2 are also called 'garden fireworks' and are those best to domestic settings. They are defined as being safely viewable from a distance of 5 meters (16.5 ft) and must not scatter their debris beyond 3 meter (9.8 ft).
A Category 3 firework is safely viewed from 25 meters (82 ft), although the debris can scatter across 50 meters (164 ft). This category of firework can be bought from retailers but is intended for large private displays, typically by local community groups.
A licence is not required to buy Category 4 fireworks, but they can only be sold to people with the correct insurance and storage facilities.
Anyone planning to buy fireworks for an impressive private firework display must put the safety of their guests ahead of all other concerns. Fireworks have the capability to maim or even kill. One of the smallest fireworks, the hand-held sparkler, is involved in the majority of accidents. Users should always abide by the Firework Code.
A firework party should be a time of fun and excitement, and all the drama should be happen in the sky, nowhere else. Everyone wants to enjoy an incident free event.
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