Do it yourself firework displays....
A good solid show is not of out reach even for the beginner. The market now has some quite advanced products - Single Ignitions. With a bit of common sense and some basic preparation you will able to entertain the crowd safely.
Some of main things to take in to consideration are:
- The Display Area
- You are going to need at least 25 metres between you and your Audience
- A big area behind and to the sides of your firing area. Nothing obstructing over head or anything hazardous in the immediate display area e.g. a petrol station or corn field etc
- Fireworks
- A good selection of different types of fireworks.
- A firing order or plan of what sequence you are going to set the Fireworks off. Designate helpers and allocate tasks
- Set up
- Mark an audience safety barrier using tape or barriers
- Lay out the fireworks and secure them before the show
- You can weather proof simply by covering with bin bags
- Wind
- Is a major factor. If the wind is in the wrong direction i.e. towards or across the audience, remove rockets from your display
- If the wind is too strong don't be afraid to postpone the show and remember the wind is usually much stronger higher up
- Firing
- Wear protective clothing at least goggles, a baseball cap and gloves
- Make sure everyone knows what they are meant to be doing
- Split the team up so each firer operates their own area
- Essential to use Portfires this saves a lot problems. Light at arms length and always light the tip and not the middle. If the firework doesn't go off leave it - DO NOT go back! After the show dowse it in water
- Clearing up
- After the show check for fireworks that did not go off. When in doubt dowse everything in water and bag it up
- Do not let anyone enter the display area until it is safe
- Never throw spent fireworks on to the bonfire, they may still be live and shoot off into the audience or at you!
