Dear readers, welcome to the Farfouil en fête blog. We are excited to share key information about fireworks safety with you. Our role is also to raise public awareness of safety concepts specific to the use of fireworks . To do this, simple common sense rules must be applied:
Understanding the Firework Instructions
Safety starts with understanding. Read all instructions for use on the fireworks before handling . The instructions provided with each firework contain valuable information to ensure correct and safe use. Details like safety distance, wind direction, and even wick burn time can make all the difference in safety. Always take the time to understand these instructions before lighting the firework.
Interpretation of Safety Symbols
In the instructions for use you will find a variety of safety symbols that provide important information about the precautions to take when using the firework. These symbols can indicate things like minimum safety distance, burn hazard, explosion hazard, and more. Make sure you understand all of these symbols before handling the fireworks.
Choose the Shooting Location
Proper positioning is crucial for the safe use of fireworks. Place spectators with their backs to the wind, away from the shooting location . It is also important to ensure that the shooting area is clear, without obstructions such as trees, power lines or structures that could be affected by the fireworks.
Land Selection
The choice of terrain is also crucial for safety. Opt for flat, open terrain, away from buildings and other structures. Avoid damp or wet grounds, as they may affect the stability of the fireworks. Additionally, make sure the field is large enough to allow an adequate safety distance between the shooting location and spectators.
Respect of Safety Distances
Adequate distancing is vital for public safety. Respect the safety distances indicated on the fireworks . These distances vary depending on the size and power of the fireworks, and failure to follow them could result in injury or property damage.
Calculation of Safety Distances
The safety distance is usually indicated on the fireworks packaging, but if it is not indicated, a general rule is to maintain a safety distance of three times the intended height of the fireworks. For example, if the fireworks are supposed to rise 30 meters, the minimum safety distance should be 90 meters.
Preparing for Weather Conditions
Weather conditions have a significant impact on fireworks safety. In the event of drought or strong winds, we do not recommend setting off the fireworks . Not only can these conditions affect the flight of fireworks, but they also increase the risk of fire. In such conditions, it is better to postpone the event to a safer day.
Weather Monitoring
It is important to monitor the weather forecast in the days leading up to the event, to get an idea of what conditions you can expect. If inclement weather is forecast, consider postponing the event to a later date.
Stabilization of the Artifice
To ensure that the firework goes off as intended, it must be properly stabilized. Prop the compacts to avoid any risk of tipping during firing (with concrete blocks for example). A fireworks that is not stable may fall and move in an unexpected direction, which can be dangerous.
Use of Stabilization Supports
There are several types of stabilizing brackets available on the market, ranging from simple wooden plates to brackets specifically designed for fireworks. These supports can help ensure that the fireworks remain stable throughout the show.
Firework Lighting Procedure
How you light a firework can also affect its trajectory and stability. Lay the fireworks flat on a level ground. Light the end of the wick, arm straight, knees bent . This position allows you to move away quickly and safely once the firework is lit.
Management of Defective Artworks
When a firework does not work, do not approach it, do not try to relight it . The firework may be delayed and explode unexpectedly when you try to light it again. It is best to wait at least 30 minutes before trying to extinguish it with water.
Disposal of Defective Artifacts
Once you have waited the necessary time, it is important to properly dispose of the defective device. Wet fireworks should never be thrown into a normal trash can. Instead, they should be taken to a local recycling center where they can be processed properly.
Respect the environment
Remember that the earth is our common home. Respect the environment, do not leave any trash at the shooting location . Be sure to clean up all debris and leftover fireworks after the show. Not only does this protect the environment, but it also preserves the beauty of the place for future generations.
Fireworks Safety: Legal Aspect in France
In France, the sale and use of fireworks is regulated by law. There are different categories of fireworks, ranging from entertainment fireworks (category F1) to show fireworks (category F4).
Category F1 fireworks are authorized for sale to people over 12 years old. Categories F2 and F3 are authorized for people over 18 years old. The difference between categories F2 and F3 lies in the power of the fireworks, category F3 being more powerful and must be used with caution.
The F4 category, for its part, is reserved for people who have followed specific training, such as the F4 T2 fireworks training. It is important to note that the purchase and use of category F2 to F4 fireworks without the appropriate training or certification may result in penalties.
Regarding the shooting location, it should be noted that launching fireworks is generally prohibited in urban areas without the appropriate authorization. Furthermore, mayors have the power to prohibit or regulate the use of fireworks in their municipality for safety reasons.
It is also important to respect shooting times. In general, fireworks are allowed until 11 p.m., except on certain special occasions when the time may be extended.
It should be noted that the use of a remote igniter is reserved for pyrotechnicians in France. This ensures that the operator can maintain a safe distance whilst having precise control over the firing of the firework.
New Regulations: the Fireworks Sales Register
A recent government measure, validated on December 17, 2021, requires all fireworks resellers to keep a sales register for certain products. This concerns all F3 items and in F2 rockets and candles, F1 items are not affected .
Each establishment must now keep this register, the form of which is free (notebook, diary, computer file, etc.). The following information must be collected from our consumer customers and kept for a period of 18 months:
- Date and time of purchase
- Payment method
- Type of pyrotechnic articles intended for entertainment
- Category and quantity
- Name, first name, date and place of birth
- Nature and number of the identity document
- Issuing authority and date
The challenge is to regain the government's confidence among pyrotechnic buyers and sellers. This measure aims to strengthen the traceability of sales and prevent the inappropriate or dangerous use of fireworks.
Conclusion
Ultimately, safety should always be your priority when using fireworks. Follow the instructions, take into account environmental conditions, stabilize your fireworks correctly and act carefully. And remember: while enjoying the beauty and excitement of fireworks, always respect the environment and the law. At Farfouil en fête , we are here to help you celebrate safely and in compliance with the legislation. You can visit our main fireworks page and our collection of batteries and compacts to discover our products.
