Fireworks

'Silent' fireworks displays are becoming popular due to concerns that noise effects traumatize pets, wildlife, and some humans. However, these are not a new type of firework and they are not completely silent. "Silent firework displays" refers to displays which simply exclude large, spectacular, noisy fireworks and make greater use of smaller, quieter devices.{{cite web|url=https://www.snopes.com/fact-check/silent-fireworks/|title=Are Silent Fireworks Real?|first=Dan|last=Evon|date=2018-07-03|website=Snopes.com}}

{{Further|History of gunpowder|Four Great Inventions}}

File:Ming Dynasty Jin Ping Mei fireworks.jpg novel Jin Ping Mei{{cite book|first=Joseph|last=Needham|year=1986|publisher=Cambridge University Press|title=Science and Civilisation in China, Volume 5: Chemistry and Chemical Technology, Part 7: Military Technology: The Gunpowder Epic|isbn=0-521-30358-3|page=140}}]]

File:RoyalFireworks.jpg, London, England, in 1749]]

File:18th century English illustration of Chinese fireworks.jpg{{cite book|first=Joseph|last=Needham|year=1986|publisher=Cambridge University Press|title=Science and Civilisation in China, Volume 5: Chemistry and Chemical Technology, Part 7: Military Technology: The Gunpowder Epic|isbn=0-521-30358-3|page=142}}]]

File:A firework display for Muḥammad Sháh, portrayed seated and leaning against a bolster..jpg

File:Preparing Firework.jpg, Germany]]

File:Groundfireworks-burning.jpg spinning during a traditional Maltese feast]]

File:Firework design.jpg

File:Grand finale.jpg

The earliest fireworks came from China during the Song dynasty (960–1279).Gernet, Jacques (1962). Daily Life in China on the Eve of the Mongol Invasion, 1250–1276. Translated by H.M. Wright. Stanford: Stanford University Press. Page 186. {{ISBN|0-8047-0720-0}}. Fireworks were used to accompany many festivities.Temple, Robert K.G. (2007). The Genius of China: 3,000 Years of Science, Discovery, and Invention (3rd edition). London: André Deutsch, pp. 256–257. {{ISBN|978-0-233-00202-6}} In China, pyrotechnicians were respected for their knowledge of complex techniques in creating fireworks and mounting firework displays.{{cite book|last=Hutchins|first=Paul|title=The secret doorway: Beyond imagination|year=2009|publisher=Imagination Publishing|isbn=978-0-9817123-3-8|page=27}}

During the Han dynasty (202 BC – 220 AD), people threw bamboo stems into a fire to produce an explosion with a loud sound. In later times, gunpowder packed into small containers was used to mimic the sounds of burning bamboo. Exploding bamboo stems and gunpowder firecrackers were interchangeably known as baozhu (爆竹) or baogan (爆竿). During the Song dynasty, people manufactured the first firecrackers comprising tubes made from rolled sheets of paper containing gunpowder and a fuse.{{cite journal |last1=Yuan |first1=Haiwang |title=Chinese Fireworks |journal=DLPS Faculty Publications. |date=2008 |url=http://digitalcommons.wku.edu/dlps_fac_pub/19}} They also strung these firecrackers together into large clusters, known as bian (lit. "whip") or bianpao (lit. "whip cannon"), so the firecrackers could be set off one by one in close sequence. By the 12th and possibly the 11th century, the term baozhang (爆仗) was used to specifically refer to gunpowder firecrackers.{{cite book|first=Joseph|last=Needham|year=1986|publisher=Cambridge University Press|title=Science and Civilisation in China, Volume 5: Chemistry and Chemical Technology, Part 7: Military Technology: The Gunpowder Epic|isbn=0-521-30358-3|pages=128–31}} The first usage of the term was in the Dreams of the Glories of the Eastern Capital (東京夢華錄; about 1148) by Meng Yuanlao.

During the Song dynasty, common folk could purchase fireworks such as firecrackers from market vendors.Gernet, Jacques (1962). Daily Life in China on the Eve of the Mongol Invasion, 1250–1276. Translated by H.M. Wright. Stanford: Stanford University Press, pp. 186. {{ISBN|0-8047-0720-0}}. Grand displays of fireworks were also known to be held. In 1110, according to the Dreams of the Glories of the Eastern Capital, a large fireworks display mounted by the military was held to entertain Emperor Huizong of Song (r. 1100–1125).Kelly, Jack (2004). Gunpowder: Alchemy, Bombards, and Pyrotechnics: The History of the Explosive that Changed the World. New York: Basic Books, Perseus Books Group, page 2. The Qidong Yeyu (齊東野語; 1264) states that a rocket-propelled firework called a dilaoshu (地老鼠; lit. "earth rat") went off near the Empress Dowager Gong Sheng and startled her during a feast held in her honor by her son Emperor Lizong of Song (r. 1224–1264).{{cite book|first=Joseph|last=Needham|year=1986|publisher=Cambridge University Press|title=Science and Civilisation in China, Volume 5: Chemistry and Chemical Technology, Part 7: Military Technology: The Gunpowder Epic|isbn=0-521-30358-3|page=135}} This type of firework was one of the earliest examples of rocket propulsion. Around 1280, a Syrian named Hasan al-Rammah wrote of rockets, fireworks, and other incendiaries, using terms that suggested he derived his knowledge from Chinese sources,Kelly, Jack (2004). Gunpowder: Alchemy, Bombards, & Pyrotechnics: The History of the Explosive that Changed the World. Basic Books, page 22. {{ISBN|0-465-03718-6}}. such as his references to fireworks as "Chinese flowers".

Colored fireworks were developed from earlier (possibly Han dynasty or soon thereafter) Chinese application of chemical substances to create colored smoke and fire. Such application appears in the Huolongjing (14th century) and Wubeizhi (preface of 1621, printed 1628), which describes recipes, several of which used low-nitrate gunpowder, to create military signal smokes with various colors. In the Wubei Huolongjing (武備火龍經; Ming, completed after 1628), two formulas appears for firework-like signals, the sanzhangju (三丈菊) and baizhanglian (百丈蓮), that produces silver sparkles in the smoke. In the Huoxilüe (火戲略; 1753) by Zhao Xuemin (趙學敏), there are several recipes with low-nitrate gunpowder and other chemical substances to tint flames and smoke.{{cite book|first=Joseph|last=Needham|year=1986|publisher=Cambridge University Press|title=Science and Civilisation in China, Volume 5: Chemistry and Chemical Technology, Part 7: Military Technology: The Gunpowder Epic|isbn=0-521-30358-3|pages=144–46}} These included, for instance, arsenical sulphide for yellow, copper acetate (verdigris) for green, lead carbonate for lilac-white, and mercurous chloride (calomel) for white. The Chinese pyrotechnics were described by the French author Antoine Caillot (1818): "It is certain that the variety of colours which the Chinese have the secret of giving to flame is the greatest mystery of their fireworks." Similarly, the English geographer Sir John Barrow (ca. 1797) wrote "The diversity of colours indeed with which the Chinese have the secret of cloathing fire seems to be the chief merit of their pyrotechny."

Fireworks were produced in Europe by the 14th century, becoming popular by the 17th century.{{Ullmann|author1=T. T. Griffiths|author2=U. Krone|author3=R. Lancaster|title=Pyrotechnics|year=2017|doi=10.1002/14356007.a22_437.pub2}}[https://web.archive.org/web/20160106154801/https://ssec.si.edu/stemvisions-blog/evolution-fireworks "The Evolution of Fireworks"], Smithsonian Science Education Center. ssec.si.edu. Lev Izmailov, ambassador of Peter the Great, once reported from China: "They make such fireworks that no one in Europe has ever seen."{{cite book|last=Werrett|first=Simon|title=Fireworks: Pyrotechnic arts and sciences in European history|year=2010|publisher=The University of Chicago Press|location=Chicago|isbn=978-0-226-89377-8|page=181}} In 1758, the Jesuit missionary Pierre Nicolas le Chéron d'Incarville, living in Beijing, wrote about the methods and composition of Chinese fireworks to the Paris Academy of Sciences, which published the account five years later.{{cite book|last=Werrett|first=Simon|title=Fireworks: Pyrotechnic arts and sciences in European history|year=2010|publisher=The University of Chicago Press|location=Chicago|isbn=978-0-226-89377-8|page=183}} Amédée-François Frézier published his revised work Traité des feux d'artice pour le spectacle (Treatise on Fireworks) in 1747 (originally 1706),{{cite book|last=Werrett|first=Simon|title=Fireworks: Pyrotechnic arts and sciences in European history|year=2010|publisher=The University of Chicago Press|location=Chicago|isbn=978-0-226-89377-8|pages=144–45}} covering the recreational and ceremonial uses of fireworks, rather than their military uses. 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.

"Prior to the nineteenth century and the advent of modern chemistry they [fireworks] must have been relatively dull and unexciting." Bertholet in 1786 discovered that oxidations with potassium chlorate resulted in a violet emission. Subsequent developments revealed that oxidations with the chlorates of barium, strontium, copper, and sodium result in intense emission of bright colors. The isolation of metallic magnesium and aluminium marked another breakthrough as these metals burn with an intense silvery light.

{{Main|Pyrotechnic composition}}

File:Flametest--Cu.swn.jpg compounds glow green or blue-green in a flame.]]

File:Fireworks_shell.jpg

Colors in fireworks are usually generated by pyrotechnic stars—usually just called stars—which produce intense light when ignited. Stars contain four basic types of ingredients.

• A fuel
• An oxidizer—a compound that combines with the fuel to produce intense heat
• Color-producing salts (when the fuel itself is not the colorant)
• A binder which holds the pellet together.

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). 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.

The color of sparks is limited to red/orange, yellow/gold and white/silver. This is explained by light emission from an incandescent solid particle in contrast to the element-specific emission from the vapor phase of a flame.{{cite book |last1=Kosanke |first1=Kenneth L. |title=Selected Pyrotechnic Publications of K. L. and B. J. Kosanke, Part 4: 1995 Through 1997 |last2=Kosanke |first2=Bonnie J. |last3=Jennings-White |first3=C. |date=1999 |publisher=Journal of Pyrotechnics |isbn=978-1-889526-12-6 |pages=49–62 |chapter=Pyrotechnic Spark Generation |chapter-url=https://books.google.com/books?id=e4GOAIA8HaEC&pg=PA49}} Light emitted from a solid particle is defined by black-body radiation. Low boiling metals can form sparks with an intensively colored glowing shell surrounding the basic particle.{{cite journal |last1=Lederle |first1=Felix |last2=Koch |first2=Jannis |last3=Hübner |first3=Eike G. |date=21 February 2019 |title=Colored Sparks |journal=European Journal of Inorganic Chemistry |volume=2019 |issue=7 |pages=928–37 |doi=10.1002/ejic.201801300 |s2cid=104449284}} This is caused by vapor phase combustion of the metal.

The brightest stars, often called Mag Stars, are fueled by aluminium. Magnesium is rarely used in the fireworks industry due to its lack of ability to form a protective oxide layer. Often an alloy of both metals called magnalium is used.

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.

The following table lists the principal elements used in modern pyrotechnics. Some elements are used in their elemental form such as particles of titanium, aluminium, iron, zirconium, and magnesium. These elements burn in the presence of air (O2) or oxidants (perchlorate, chlorate). Most elements in pyrotechnics are in the form of salts.

{{See also|Consumer fireworks#Examples}}

{{Incomplete list|date=October 2024}}

{{Main|Roman candle (firework)}}

A Roman candle is a long tube containing several large stars which fire 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.

A mine (a.k.a. pot à feu) is a 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, and small shells, as well as just stars. Although mines up to {{convert|12|in|0}} diameter appear on occasion, they are usually {{convert|3|-|5|in}} in diameter.

{{Main|Skyrocket}}

{{Main|Cake (firework)}}

A cake is a cluster of individual tubes linked by fuse that fires a series of aerial effects. Tube diameters can range in size from {{convert|1/4|-|4|in}}, and a single cake can have more than 1,000 shots. 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. Others are simply quantities of {{convert|2.5|-|4|in|abbr=on}} shells fused together in single-shot tubes.

{{Incomplete list|date=October 2024}}

{{Main|Sparkler|Senko hanabi}}

{{Main|Firecracker}}

{{Main|Bang snaps}}

A shell containing several large stars that travel a short distance before breaking apart into smaller stars, creating a crisscrossing grid-like effect. Strictly speaking, a crossette star should split into four pieces which fly off symmetrically, making a cross. Once limited to silver or gold effects, colored crossettes such as red, green, or white are now very common.

File:Fireworks 2021-07-04 (4) jeh.jpg

A spherical break of colored stars, similar to a peony, but with stars that leave a visible trail of sparks.

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 {{convert|3|in|abbr=on}} peony shell is made with a star size designed for a {{convert|6|in|0|abbr=on}} shell, it is then considered a dahlia. Some dahlia shells are cylindrical rather than spherical to allow for larger stars.

A type of chrysanthemum or peony, with a center cluster of non-moving stars, normally of a contrasting color or effect.

Inserts that propel themselves rapidly away from the shell burst, often resembling fish swimming away.

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".

File:Artilleryshells1.jpg

Kamuro is a Japanese word meaning "boys haircut", which is what this shell resembles when fully exploded in the air. It is a dense burst of glittering silver or gold stars which leave a heavy glitter trail and shine bright in the night's sky.

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 {{convert|48|in|0|disp=sqbr}}) are frequently used in Japan.

File:Tybee island georgia july 4 fireworks.jpg, United States]]

A shell containing a relatively few large comet stars arranged in such a way as to burst with large arms or tendrils, producing a palm tree-like effect. 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.

A spherical break of colored stars that burn without a tail effect. The peony is the most commonly seen shell type.

A shell with stars specially arranged so as to create a ring. Variations include smiley faces, hearts, and clovers.

{{Main|Salute (pyrotechnics)}}

A shell intended to produce a loud report rather than a visual effect. Salute shells usually contain flash powder, producing a quick flash followed by a very loud report resembling military artillery. 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.

File:Spider-Firework-Omiya-Japan.jpg

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 slightly falling and burning out. This appears in the sky as a series of radial lines much like the legs of a spider.

An effect created by large, slow-burning stars within a shell that leave a trail of large glittering sparks behind and make a 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.

A willow is similar to a chrysanthemum, but with long-burning silver or gold stars that produce a soft, dome-shaped weeping willow-like effect.

Farfalle is an effect in Italian fireworks with spinning silver sprays in the air.

A tourbillion is similar to a farfalle but has spinning stars.{{Clarify|date=February 2021}}

The bang is the most common effect in fireworks and sounds like artillery cannon being fired; technically a "report". Silent fireworks have all of the visual effects, however. The "salute" effect is even more pronounced and sometimes is banned.

The firework produces a crackling sound.

Tiny tube fireworks that are ejected into the air spinning with such force that they shred their outer coating, in doing so they whizz and hum.

High pitched often very loud screaming and screeching created by the resonance of gas. This is caused by a very fast strobing (on/off burning stage) of the fuel. The rapid bursts of gas from the fuel vibrate the air many hundreds of times per second causing the familiar whistling sound. It is not, as is commonly thought, made in the conventional way that musical instruments are using specific tube shapes or apertures. Common whistle fuels contain benzoate or salicylate compounds and a suitable oxidizer such as potassium perchlorate.

File:Launching firework rocket.jpg]]

File:Clyde Learns About Fireworks.webm, a 1970s educational children's show, which reveals the hazards of improper firework usage]]

Improper use of fireworks is dangerous, both to the person operating them (risks of burns and wounds) and to bystanders; in addition, they may start fires on landing. To prevent fireworks accidents, the use of fireworks is legally restricted in many countries.{{cite web |url=https://www.fireworkscrazy.co.uk/where-are-fireworks-illegal/ |website=www.fireworkscrazy.co.uk/|title=Where are Fireworks Illegal? - Firework Crazy }} In such countries, display fireworks are restricted for use by professionals; smaller consumer versions may or may not be available to the public.

Birds and animals, both domestic and wild, can be frightened by their noise, leading to them running away, often into danger, or hurting themselves on fences or in other ways in an attempt to escape the perceived danger.{{Cite web |url=http://www.animalaid.org.uk/h/n/NEWS/news_living/ALL/1680// |title=Fireworks Frighten Animals |publisher=Animal Aid |date=26 October 2007 |access-date=24 June 2010 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20100917174633/http://animalaid.org.uk/h/n/NEWS/news_living/ALL/1680// |archive-date=17 September 2010 }}{{Cite web|title=Fireworks Thunder and Pets – Safety considerations for noise phobias|url=http://vetmedicine.about.com/cs/diseasesall/a/petsfireworks.htm|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090830095911/http://vetmedicine.about.com/cs/diseasesall/a/petsfireworks.htm|archive-date=30 August 2009|access-date=24 June 2010|publisher=Vetmedicine.about.com}}{{Cite web|date=17 August 2009|title=How should I care for my pets during fireworks displays?|url=http://kb.rspca.org.au/How-should-I-care-for-my-pets-during-fireworks-displays_82.html|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20091113121356/http://kb.rspca.org.au/How-should-I-care-for-my-pets-during-fireworks-displays_82.html|archive-date=13 November 2009|access-date=24 June 2010|publisher=Kb.rspca.org.au}}{{cite journal |last1=Bateman |first1=Philip W. |last2=Gilson |first2=Lauren N. |last3=Bradshaw |first3=Penelope |title=Not just a flash in the pan: short and long term impacts of fireworks on the environment |journal=Pacific Conservation Biology |date=2023 |volume=29 |issue=5 |pages=396–401 |doi=10.1071/PC22040 |doi-access=free|bibcode=2023PacSB..29..396B }}

Majority of dogs experience distress, fear and anxiety during fireworks.{{cite web | title=Pets during fireworks season | website=RSPCA | url=https://www.rspca.org.uk/-/news-classic-fm-and-rspca-join-forces-to-help-pets-during-fireworks-season | access-date=2023-12-30}}{{cite journal | last1=Storengen | first1=Linn Mari | last2=Lingaas | first2=Frode | title=Noise sensitivity in 17 dog breeds: Prevalence, breed risk and correlation with fear in other situations | journal=Applied Animal Behaviour Science | volume=171 | date=2015-10-01 | issn=0168-1591 | doi=10.1016/j.applanim.2015.08.020 | pages=152–160 | url=https://sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0168159115002233#! | access-date=2023-12-30}}{{cite journal | last1=Scheifele | first1=Peter M. | last2=Overall | first2=Karen L. | last3=Gruen | first3=Margaret E. | last4=Sherman | first4=Barbara L. | last5=Bellamy | first5=Kim K.L. | last6=Lingaas | first6=Frode | last7=Tiira | first7=Katriina | last8=Lohi | first8=Hannes | last9=Pekkin | first9=Anne-Maria | last10=Valros | first10=Anna | last11=Souza | first11=Carla Caroline Franzini de | last12=Medeiros | first12=Magda Alves de | title=Fear responses to noises in domestic dogs: Prevalence, risk factors and co-occurrence with other fear related behaviour | journal=Applied Animal Behaviour Science | publisher=Elsevier | volume=145 | issue=1–2 | date=2013-04-01 | issn=0168-1591 | doi=10.1016/j.applanim.2012.12.004 | pages=15–25 | url=https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S016815911200367X | access-date=2023-12-30}} In 2016, following a petition signed by more than 100,000 Brits, House of Commons of the United Kingdom debated a motion to restrict firework use.{{citation | title=Restrict firework use to four days a year| website=British Broadcasting Corporation | date=2016-05-17 | url=https://bbc.com/news/uk-36311475 | language=en-GB | access-date=2023-12-30 | page=}}

Fireworks also affect birds, especially larger birds like geese, eagles and others.{{cite web | last=Nilsson | first=Johan | title=Inte bara hundar som får skrämselhicka av fyrverkerier | website=Dagens Nyheter | date=2023-12-30 | url=https://www.dn.se/varlden/inte-bara-hundar-som-far-skramselhicka-av-fyrverkerier/ | language=sv | access-date=2023-12-30|archive-url=https://archive.today/20231230093615/https://www.dn.se/varlden/inte-bara-hundar-som-far-skramselhicka-av-fyrverkerier/ |archive-date=2023-12-30}} According to a study by Max Planck Institute and Netherlands Institute of Ecology, many birds abruptly leave their sleeping sites on New Year's Eve, and some fly up to 500 km non-stop to get away from human settlements.{{cite web | last=Amsterdam | first=Universiteit van | title=Fireworks have long-lasting effects on wild birds | website=University of Amsterdam | date=2022-11-28 | url=https://ibed.uva.nl/content/news/2022/11/fireworks-have-long-lasting-effects-on-wild-birds.html | access-date=2023-12-30}} On average, about 1000 times more birds are in flight on New Year's Eve than on other nights.{{cite journal | last1=Hoekstra | first1=Bart | last2=Bouten | first2=Willem | last3=Dokter | first3=Adriaan | last4=van Gasteren | first4=Hans | last5=van Turnhout | first5=Chris | last6=Kranstauber | first6=Bart | last7=van Loon | first7=Emiel | last8=Leijnse | first8=Hidde | last9=Shamoun-Baranes | first9=Judy | title=Fireworks disturbance across bird communities | journal=Frontiers in Ecology and the Environment | date=2023-12-07 | volume=22 | issn=1540-9295 | doi=10.1002/fee.2694 | page=| doi-access=free }} Frightened birds also may abandon nests and not return to complete rearing their young.{{cite web |last=Smith |first=Andrea |date=5 July 2018 |title=Why this Italian town is switching to silent fireworks |url=https://www.lonelyplanet.com/articles/italian-town-silent-fireworks |publisher=Lonely Planet}} A scientific study from 2022 indicates that fireworks might have some sort of lasting effect on birds, with many birds spending more time to find food in the weeks after New Year's Eve fireworks.{{cite journal | last1=Kölzsch | first1=Andrea | last2=Lameris | first2=Thomas K. | last3=Müskens | first3=Gerhard J. D. M. | last4=Schreven | first4=Kees H. T. | last5=Buitendijk | first5=Nelleke H. | last6=Kruckenberg | first6=Helmut | last7=Moonen | first7=Sander | last8=Heinicke | first8=Thomas | last9=Cao | first9=Lei | last10=Madsen | first10=Jesper | last11=Wikelski | first11=Martin | last12=Nolet | first12=Bart A. | title=Wild goose chase: Geese flee high and far, and with aftereffects from New Year's fireworks | journal=Conservation Letters | volume=16 | issue=1 | date=2023 | issn=1755-263X | doi=10.1111/conl.12927 | page=| doi-access=free | bibcode=2023ConL...16E2927K | hdl=20.500.11755/f3be552f-d141-40e5-a1bf-9404a51ce1e2 | hdl-access=free }}

File:Smokyhaze.jpg caused by smoke from fireworks, combined with smoke from wildfires few miles away from where the photo was taken]]

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.) Some fishers have noticed and reported to environmental authorities that firework residues can hurt fish and other water-life because some may contain toxic compounds (such as antimony sulfide{{cite book |last1=Shimizu |first1=Takeo |chapter=Some Techniques for Manufacturing Fireworks |pages=21– |chapter-url=https://books.google.com/books?id=X3aFQdJkmnAC&pg=PA21 |title=Selected Pyrotechnic Publications of Dr. Takeo Shimizu Part 2: Translated Articles |date=1997 |publisher=Journal of Pyrotechnics |isbn=978-1-889526-10-2 }}{{cite journal |last1=Camilleri |first1=Renato |last2=Vella |first2=Alfred J. |title=Effect of fireworks on ambient air quality in Malta |journal=Atmospheric Environment |date=November 2010 |volume=44 |issue=35 |pages=4521–4527 |doi=10.1016/j.atmosenv.2010.07.057 |bibcode=2010AtmEn..44.4521C | issn=1352-2310}}Junyi, W., Haicheng, H., & Zhenbing, T. (2019). [https://webofproceedings.org/proceedings_series/ALSMB/ICBCME%202019/ICBCME017.pdf Research on rapid qualitative detection of antimony in pyrotechnic powder used for fireworks and firecrackers].{{cite journal |last1=Steinhauser |first1=Georg |last2=Klapötke |first2=Thomas M. |title=Using the Chemistry of Fireworks To Engage Students in Learning Basic Chemical Principles: A Lesson in Eco-Friendly Pyrotechnics |journal=Journal of Chemical Education |date=12 January 2010 |volume=87 |issue=2 |pages=150–156 |doi=10.1021/ed800057x |bibcode=2010JChEd..87..150S }} or arsenic{{cite journal |last1=Sterba |first1=Johannes H. |last2=Steinhauser |first2=Georg |last3=Grass |first3=Fritz |title=Illicit utilization of arsenic compounds in pyrotechnics? An analysis of the suspended particle emission during Vienna's New Year fireworks |journal=Journal of Radioanalytical and Nuclear Chemistry |date=April 2013 |volume=296 |issue=1 |pages=237–243 |doi=10.1007/s10967-012-2001-x |bibcode=2013JRNC..296..237S |s2cid=97761513 }}). 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 black powder used, type of oxidizer, colors produced and launch method.

Perchlorate salts, when in solid form, dissolve and move rapidly in groundwater and surface water. Even in low concentrations in drinking water supplies, perchlorate ions are known to inhibit the uptake of iodine by the thyroid gland. As of 2010, there are no federal drinking water standards for perchlorates in the United States, but the

US Environmental Protection Agency has studied the impacts of perchlorates on the environment as well as drinking water.{{Cite web|title=Perchlorate | Drinking Water Contaminants | Safewater | Water | US EPA|url=http://www.epa.gov/safewater/contaminants/unregulated/perchlorate.html|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20061201201120/http://www.epa.gov/safewater/contaminants/unregulated/perchlorate.html|archive-date=1 December 2006|access-date=24 June 2010|publisher=Epa.gov}}

Several U.S. states have enacted drinking water standard for perchlorates, including Massachusetts in 2006. California's legislature enacted AB 826, the Perchlorate Contamination Prevention Act of 2003, requiring California's Department of Toxic Substance Control (DTSC) to adopt regulations specifying best management practices for perchlorate-containing substances. The Perchlorate Best Management Practices were adopted on 31 December 2005 and became operative on 1 July 2006.{{Cite web|title=Perchlorate|url=http://www.dtsc.ca.gov/HazardousWaste/Perchlorate/|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090823021109/http://www.dtsc.ca.gov/HazardousWaste/Perchlorate/|archive-date=23 August 2009|access-date=24 June 2010|publisher=Dtsc.ca.gov}} California issued drinking water standards in 2007. Several other states, including Arizona, Maryland, Nevada, New Mexico, New York, and Texas have established non-enforceable, advisory levels for perchlorates.

The courts have also taken action with regard to perchlorate contamination. For example, in 2003, a federal district court in California found that Comprehensive Environmental Response, Compensation and Liability Act (CERCLA) applied because perchlorate is ignitable and therefore a "characteristic" hazardous waste.Castaic Lake Water Agency v. Whittaker, 272 F. Supp. 2d 1053, 1059-61 (C.D. Cal. 2003)

Pollutants from fireworks raise concerns because of potential health risks associated with the products of combustion during the liquid phase and the solid phase after they have cooled as well as the gases produced, particularly the carbon monoxide and carbon dioxide. For persons with asthma or other respiratory conditions, the smoke from fireworks may aggravate existing health problems.{{cite magazine |last=Coghlan |first=Andy |date=17 December 2008 |magazine=New Scientist |url=https://www.newscientist.com/article/mg20026875.800 |title=Great fireworks, shame about the toxic fallout}}

Pollution is also a concern because fireworks often contain heavy metals as source of color.{{Cite web|date=2 July 2020|title=Common Fireworks Release Lead, Copper & Other Toxic Metals into the Air|url=https://nyulangone.org/news/common-fireworks-release-lead-copper-other-toxic-metals-air|access-date=19 September 2021|website=NYU Langone News|language=en}}{{Cite journal|last1=Hickey|first1=Christina|last2=Gordon|first2=Christopher|last3=Galdanes|first3=Karen|last4=Blaustein|first4=Martin|last5=Horton|first5=Lori|last6=Chillrud|first6=Steven|last7=Ross|first7=James|last8=Yinon|first8=Lital|last9=Chen|first9=Lung Chi|last10=Gordon|first10=Terry|date=2 July 2020|title=Toxicity of particles emitted by fireworks|journal=Particle and Fibre Toxicology|volume=17|issue=1|pages=28|doi=10.1186/s12989-020-00360-4|issn=1743-8977|pmc=7330945|pmid=32611421 |doi-access=free |bibcode=2020PFTox..17...28H }} However, gunpowder smoke and the solid residues are basic, and as such the cumulative effect of fireworks on acid rain is uncertain.{{citation needed|date=July 2018}} 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.

Some companies within the U.S. fireworks industry claim they are working with Chinese manufacturers to reduce and ultimately hope to eliminate of the pollutant perchlorate.{{cite news |url=http://www.philly.com/philly/living/green/20090704_Pa__company_works_to_make_fireworks_greener.html |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090826004009/http://www.philly.com/philly/living/green/20090704_Pa__company_works_to_make_fireworks_greener.html |archive-date=26 August 2009 |author=Knee, Karen |work=The Philadelphia Inquirer |date=4 July 2009 |title=Pa. company works to make fireworks greener}}

In 2023, a team of researchers from NYU Langone Health assessed the effects of the Macy's 4th of July Fireworks on localized air and water pollution. The results of the study showed a sharp rise in airborne particulates, with peak real-time measurements of PM{{sub|2.5}} exceeding 1,000 μg/m³ at three sampling sites within 30 minutes after the conclusion of the fireworks display, which took several hours to return back to pre-event levels. The study also found increased levels of heavy metals in the East River that lasted for one hour after the fireworks ended.{{cite journal |last1=Saporito |first1=Antonio F. |last2=Gordon |first2=Terry |last3=Kim |first3=Beck |display-authors=etal |date=6 August 2024 |title=Skyrocketing pollution: assessing the environmental fate of July 4th fireworks in New York City |journal=Journal of Exposure Science & Environmental Epidemiology |doi=10.1038/s41370-024-00701-x|pmid=39107528 |bibcode=2024JESEE.tmp...88S }}{{cite press release |date=6 August 2024 |url=https://nyulangone.org/news/new-york-citys-fireworks-display-prompts-temporary-surge-air-pollution |title= New York City's Fireworks Display Prompts Temporary Surge of Air Pollution |publisher=NYU Langone Health |access-date=7 March 2025}}

File:Australia Day 2013 Perth 39.jpg 2013 in Perth]]

Fireworks are illegal in most Australian states and territories, unless part of a display by a licensed pyrotechnician and with a permit.{{Cite web|date=17 August 2018|title=Fireworks|url=https://www.safework.nsw.gov.au/licences-and-registrations/licences/explosives-and-fireworks-licences/fireworks|access-date=15 November 2020|website=SafeWork NSW|language=en-AU}}{{Cite web|date=30 June 2020|title=Fireworks & SFX licences|url=https://www.safework.sa.gov.au/licence-and-registration/apply-renew/fireworks-and-special-effects-licences|access-date=15 November 2020|website=SafeWork SA|language=en-AU}} However Tasmania, ACT and Northern Territory allow consumer use with a permit (dependent on calendar date and circumstances).{{Cite web|date=29 June 2020|title=Fireworks licences and permits|url=https://www.accesscanberra.act.gov.au/app/answers/detail/a_id/2183/~/fireworks-licences-and-permits|access-date=15 November 2020|website=ACT Government|language=en}}{{Dead link|date=May 2021 |bot=InternetArchiveBot |fix-attempted=yes }} On 1 July for Territory Day one can freely use fireworks without a permit in the Northern Territory.{{Cite web|date=13 October 2020|title=Disposal of shopgoods fireworks|url=https://worksafe.nt.gov.au/forms-and-resources/bulletins/disposal-of-shopgoods-fireworks|access-date=15 November 2020|website=NT WorkSafe|language=en}}

Small novelties such as party poppers and sparklers are legal for consumers across Australia.

On 24 August 2009, the ACT Government announced a complete ban on backyard fireworks.{{Cite web|title=Cracker down: ACT bans fireworks |url=http://www.abc.net.au/news/stories/2009/08/24/2664761.htm |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090827202442/http://www.abc.net.au/news/stories/2009/08/24/2664761.htm |url-status=dead |archive-date=27 August 2009 |date=24 August 2009 |publisher=Australian Broadcasting Corporation |access-date=24 August 2009}}

File:Canada Day 2016 Fireworks (27929885402).jpg 2016 firework show]]

The use, storage and sale of commercial-grade fireworks in Canada is licensed by Natural Resources Canada's Explosive Regulatory Division (ERD). Unlike their consumer counterpart, commercial-grade fireworks function differently, and come in a wide range of sizes from {{convert|50|mm|0|abbr=in}} up to {{convert|300|mm|frac=16|abbr=in}} or more in diameter. Commercial grade fireworks require a Fireworks Operator Certificate (FOC), obtained from the ERD by completing a one-day safety course. There are two categories of FOC: one for pyrotechnics (those used on stage and in movies) and another for display fireworks (those used in dedicated fireworks shows). Each requires completion of its own course, although there are special categories of FOC which allow visiting operators to run their shows with the assistance of a Canadian supervisor.

The display fireworks FOC has two levels: assistant, and fully licensed. A fully licensed display fireworks operator can also be further endorsed for marine launch, flying saucers, and other more technically demanding fireworks displays.

The pyrotechnician FOC has three levels: pyrotechnician (which allows work under a supervisor), supervising pyrotechnician, and special effects pyrotechnician (which allows the fabrication of certain types of pyrotechnic devices). Additionally, a special effects pyrotechnician can be endorsed for the use of detonating cord.

Since commercial-grade fireworks are shells which are loaded into separate mortars by hand, there is danger in every stage of the setup.Natural Resources Canada, Explosive Regulatory Division. Display Fireworks Manual (March 2002 Edition) 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 polyethylene). Older mortars made of sheet steel have been banned by most countries due to the problem of shrapnel produced during a misfire.

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 {{convert|200|m|sp=us}} down-range and {{convert|100|m|sp=us}} surrounding the mortars, plus distance adjustments for wind speed and direction. In June 2007, the ERD approved circular firing sites for use with vertically fired mortars with a safety distance of at least {{convert|175|m|adj=on|sp=us}} radius, plus distance adjustments for wind speed and direction.[https://web.archive.org/web/20080227052543/http://www.nrcan.gc.ca/mms/explosif/pdf/bull48_e.pdf Natural Resources Canada Explosive Branch Bulletin #48]

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. If the setup is wired electrically, the electrical matches are usually plugged into a "firing rail" or "breakout box" that 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.

In Chile, the manufacture, importation, possession and use of fireworks is prohibited to unauthorized individuals; only certified firework companies can legally use fireworks. As they are considered a type of explosive, offenders can in principle be tried before military courts, although this is unusual in practice.

{{main|Fireworks bans in China}}

{{Main|Fireworks policy in the European Union}}

File:Fireworks @ Eurockéennes de Belfort 2013 (9381027087).jpg 2013 in Belfort, France]]

The European Union's policy is aimed at harmonising and standardising the EU member states' policies on the regulation of production, transportation, sale, consumption and overall safety of fireworks across Europe.{{Cite news |url=http://www.uitzendinggemist.net/aflevering/247898/Brandpunt_Reporter.html |title=Wereldkampioen vuurwerk |author1=Eliza Bergman |author2=Dirk Bayens |work=Brandpunt Reporter |publisher=KRO-NCRV |date=2 January 2014 |access-date=26 December 2017 |language=nl |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20171226130602/http://www.uitzendinggemist.net/aflevering/247898/Brandpunt_Reporter.html |archive-date=26 December 2017 |url-status=dead }}

{{main|Fireworks policy in Belgium}}

In Belgium, each municipality can decide how to regulate fireworks. During New Year's Eve, lighting fireworks without a licence is allowed in 35% of the 308 Flemish municipalities, in around 50% a permit from the burgemeester (mayor) is required, and around 14% of municipalities have banned consumer fireworks altogether.{{Cite web|date=1 December 2017|title=Veiligheidsrisico's jaarwisseling|url=https://www.onderzoeksraad.nl/uploads/phase-docs/1679/f73dc5c1f5e020172659-publicatie-veiligheidsrisico-s-jaarwisseling-interactief-171127.pdf|access-date=25 December 2017|publisher=Dutch Safety Board|language=nl}}

File:Ilotulitus 2014 - panoramio.jpg, Finland]]

In Finland those under 18 years old haven't been allowed to buy any fireworks since 2009. Safety goggles are required. The use of fireworks is generally allowed on the evening and night of New Year's Eve, 31 December. In some municipalities of Western Finland it is allowed to use fireworks without a fire station's permission on the last weekend of August. With the fire station's permission, fireworks can be used year-round.{{Citation needed|date=February 2018}}

In Germany, amateurs over 18 years old are allowed to buy and ignite fireworks of Category F2 for several hours on 31 December and 1 January; each German municipality is authorised to limit the number of hours this may last locally.{{Cite news|author=Daniela Siebert|date=27 December 2017|title=Sicher durch die Silvesternacht|language=de|work=Deutschlandfunk|url=http://www.deutschlandfunk.de/feuerwerk-sicher-durch-die-silvesternacht.735.de.html?dram:article_id=406860|url-status=dead|access-date=29 December 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20171229171952/http://www.deutschlandfunk.de/feuerwerk-sicher-durch-die-silvesternacht.735.de.html?dram:article_id=406860|archive-date=29 December 2017}} The sale of Category F3 and F4 fireworks to consumers is prohibited. Lighting fireworks is forbidden near churches, hospitals, retirement homes and wooden or thatch-roofed buildings. All major German cities organise professional fireworks shows.

In addition to the previously existing regulations, there was a nationwide ban on the sale of category F2 fireworks to consumers on New Year's Eve 2020/2021 during the COVID-19 pandemic, with the aim to relieve the burden on hospitals by reducing the number of emergencies due to injuries caused by fireworks on New Year's Eve.{{cite news |title=German fireworks-makers say ban due to COVID is catastrophic for industry |url=https://www.reuters.com/world/europe/german-fireworks-makers-say-ban-due-covid-is-catastrophic-industry-2021-12-02/ |work=Reuters |date=2 December 2021}} On the 2024–2025 New Year's eve and day, five were killed and 100+ were injured due to unusually intense widespread criminality and negligence.

In 2015, the Italian town of Collecchio mandated silent fireworks, being among the first to make the switch without losing the beauty of the visual displays.

{{Main|Fireworks policy in the Netherlands}}

File:Veiligheidsrisico's Jaarwisseling.webm report on fireworks risks (English subtitles)]]

In the Netherlands, fireworks cannot be sold to anyone under the age of 16. It may only be sold during a period of three days before a new year. If one of these days is a Sunday, that day is excluded from sale and sale may commence one day earlier.{{Cite web|title=Article 2.3.5 of the Besluit van 22 januari 2002, houdende nieuwe regels met betrekking tot consumenten- en professioneel vuurwerk (Vuurwerkbesluit) Decision of January 22, 2002, laying down new rules on consumer and professional fireworks (Fireworks Decision)|url=http://wetten.overheid.nl/BWBR0013360/geldigheidsdatum_20-04-2009|access-date=20 April 2009|date=22 January 2002|work=Vuurwerkbesluit|language=nl|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110501211547/http://wetten.overheid.nl/BWBR0013360/geldigheidsdatum_20-04-2009|archive-date=1 May 2011|url-status=dead}} [https://translate.google.com/translate?js=n&prev=_t&hl=en&ie=UTF-8&u=http%3A%2F%2Fwetten.overheid.nl%2FBWBR0013360%2Fgeldigheidsdatum_20-04-2009&sl=nl&tl=en&history_state0= Google Translate] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170322141344/http://translate.google.com/translate?js=n&prev=_t&hl=en&ie=UTF-8&u=http%3A%2F%2Fwetten.overheid.nl%2FBWBR0013360%2Fgeldigheidsdatum_20-04-2009&sl=nl&tl=en&history_state0= |date=22 March 2017 }}

{{Main|Fireworks policy in the Republic of Ireland}}

In the Republic of Ireland, fireworks are illegal and possession is punishable by huge fines and/or prison. However, around Halloween a large amount of fireworks are set off, due to the ease of being able to purchase from Northern Ireland.

In Sweden, fireworks can only be purchased and used by people 18 or older. Firecrackers used to be banned, but are now allowed under European Union fireworks policy.

In Iceland, the Icelandic law states that anyone may purchase and use fireworks during a certain period around New Year's Eve. 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 31 December. As a result, every New Year's Eve the city is lit up with fireworks displays.

Fireworks in New Zealand are available from 2 to 5 November, around Guy Fawkes Day, 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. Consumer fireworks are also not allowed to be louder than 90 decibels.{{cite web|date=2015|title=Fireworks – Know The Rules|url=http://www.epa.govt.nz/hazardous-substances/pop_hs_topics/Pages/Fireworks---know-the-rules.aspx|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160126011049/http://epa.govt.nz/hazardous-substances/pop_hs_topics/Pages/Fireworks---know-the-rules.aspx|archive-date=26 January 2016|access-date=9 March 2021|website=Epa.govt.nz|publisher=NZ Environmental Protection Agency}}

In Norway, fireworks can only be purchased and used by people 18 or older. Sale is restricted to a few days before New Year's Eve. Rockets are not allowed.{{cite web|title=Norsk brannvernforening: Trygg bruk av fyrverkeri|url=http://www.brannvernforeningen.no/index.asp?id=30438 |date= December 30, 2015 |orig-date=December 30, 2008 |website=Norsk brannvernforening |url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20161021041348/http://www.brannvernforeningen.no/index.asp?id=30438|archive-date=21 October 2016|access-date=3 May 2016|language=no}}

{{Main|Fireworks law in the United Kingdom}}

File:Jodrell Bank Live 2013 22.jpg 2013]]

Fireworks in the UK have become more strictly regulated since 1997. Since 2005, the law has been harmonised gradually, in accordance with other EU member state laws.

Fireworks are mostly used in England, Scotland and Wales around Diwali (late October or early November), on Guy Fawkes Night, 5 November and on New Year's Eve. In the UK, responsibility for the safety of firework displays is shared between the Health and Safety Executive, fire brigades and local authorities. Currently, there is no national system of licensing for fireworks operators, but in order to purchase large display fireworks, operators must have licensed explosives storage and public liability insurance.

Category 1 fireworks are restricted to persons aged 16 and over, while the age limit on both Category 2 and 3 fireworks is eighteen, and the sale and possession of Category 4 fireworks is restricted to licensed professionals only. Fireworks are not permitted to be set off between 11pm and 7am with exceptions only for:

• Bonfire Night (5 November) (permitted until midnight)
• The Chinese New Year (permitted until 1am)
• Diwali (permitted until 1am)
• New Year (permitted on New Year's Eve until 1am on New Year's Day){{cite web |url=http://www.opsi.gov.uk/si/si2004/20041836.htm |title=The Fireworks Regulations 2004 |location=United Kingdom |publisher=legislation.gov.uk |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20100116194016/https://www.opsi.gov.uk/si/si2004/20041836.htm |archive-date= Jan 16, 2010 }}

The maximum legal NEC (net explosive content) of a UK firework available to the public is two kilograms. Jumping jacks, strings of firecrackers, shell firing tubes, bangers and mini-rockets were all banned during the late 1990s. In 2004, single-shot air bombs and bottle rockets were banned, and rocket sizes were limited. From March 2008 any firework with more than 5% flashpowder per tube has been classified 1.3G.{{clarify|date=July 2018}} The aim of these measures was to eliminate "pocket money" fireworks, and to limit the disruptive effects of loud bangs.{{Cite web|title= Manchester Have Your Say - Fireworks, is a ban right?|url=http://www.bbc.co.uk/manchester/have_your_say/2002/10/15/fireworks_02.shtml|access-date=6 June 2021|website=BBC |date= 15 October 2002 }}

File:San Diego Fireworks.jpg]]{{Main|Fireworks policy in the United States}}

In the United States, fireworks laws vary widely from state to state or county to county. Federal, state, and local authorities govern the use of display fireworks in the United States. The Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) regulates consumer fireworks at the federal level through the Federal Hazardous Substances Act (FHSA). The National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) sets forth a set of codes that give the minimum standards of display fireworks use and safety in the U.S. Both state and local jurisdictions can further add restrictions on the use and safety requirements of display fireworks. There are currently 46 states in the United States in which fireworks are legal for consumer use.{{Cite web|url=https://investorplace.com/2018/07/states-where-fireworks-are-legal/|title=46 States Where Fireworks Are Legal as July 4 Approaches|date=3 July 2018|website=InvestorPlace|language=en-US|access-date=10 December 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20181211010606/https://investorplace.com/2018/07/states-where-fireworks-are-legal/|archive-date=11 December 2018|url-status=dead}}

In Australia, fireworks displays are frequently used in the celebration of public holidays, particularly New Year's Eve and Australia Day. The most famous is the Sydney New Year's Eve Midnight Fireworks. In the Northern Territory, "Cracker Night" is celebrated every 1 July on Territory Day, where residents are allowed to buy and use fireworks without a permit.{{Cite news |last=Perera |first=Alicia |date=30 June 2022 |title='Final frontier': The last place in Australia you can buy and blow up explosives, for one day |language=en-AU |work=ABC News |url=https://www.abc.net.au/news/2022-07-01/why-the-nt-allows-public-fireworks-use-on-territory-day-july-1/101174064 |access-date=1 July 2022}}

Fireworks are an essential element of popular festival in Catalonia, especially the patron saint day for each Catalan town or city, usually called Festa Major. Coet (rocket) is the generic term for all kinds of pyrotechnic devices. Professional aerial displays are less common than the use of ground based fireworks by members of ritual crews.Erickson, B. (2011). Utopian virtues: Muslim neighbors, ritual sociality, and the politics of convivència. American Ethnologist, 38(1), 114–131. 10.1111/j.1548-1425.2010.01296.x

File:Ball de diables de Vilanova i la Geltrú, francesos mounted on maces and Llucifer's ceptrot at center.png

The Correfoc (firerun) is an element of many festivals, in which crews of diables (devils) dance through the streets to beating drums, holding maces above their heads upon which are mounted carretilles which spin, producing a shower of sparks culminating in an explosive pop. There are three types, les normals, les xiuladores, which emit a whistling sound, and les Arboç, which produce a large umbrella of sparks. Those that emit sparks but do not spin are called francesos and a larger, more potent version are called portuguessos. Those that emit only light are simulators and those that serve to ignite all types of coets are called botafoc, only used by the cap de la colla, or crew chief, who decides when ignition occurs. In many cases, the devils light their carretilles simultaneously by holding all of their maces together and once ignited, begin dancing to the beat of pounding drums. The character of Llucifer carries a larger and more elaborate mace called a ceptrot which is said to "dominate over all," pictured at right.

File:Sostre de foc (ceiling of fire), Vilanova i la Geltrú, Festa Major 2012.png

Pyrotechnics feature in several other Catalan festes:

Nit de San Joan (St. John’s Night, June 14) townsfolk set off rockets from all over town and light bonfires.

Parliament de Diables (the infernal parliament) is a ritual performance by crews of devils in which characters such as Lucifer, the Diablessa (portrayed by a man in women’s clothes), and other members of the crew declaim satiric verses commenting on current events, punctuated by pyrotechnic dances.Erickson, B. (2020). Grotesque logic: Catalan carnival utopias and the politics of laughter. Visual Studies, 36(4–5), 507–523. 10.1080/1472586X.2020.1798810

La Patum is celebrated in Berga on Corpus Christi, which has featured a ball de diables called Els Plens since 1628. In 2005, UNESCO declared La Patum one of the Masterpieces of the Oral and Intangible Heritage of Humanity.Noyes, D. (2003). Fire in the Placa: Catalan Festival Politics After Franco. University of Pennsylvania Press. http://www.jstor.org/stable/j.ctt3fj339

The correfoc of the festa major of Vilanova i la Geltrú culminates in a sostre de foc (ceiling of fire) during which a mass of coets attached to wires are strung above the central plaza enabling the assembled multitude to be showered with sparks and explosions from the sky.Abdelmalek, S, El Correfoc de Vilanova i la Geltrú, en lluita per preservar “l'essència d'una tradició de més de 30 anys”. Eix Diari, 25-07-2023

File:A firework display - Ebenezer Landells - possibly 1855.jpg, possibly the display given by Napoleon III on Queen Victoria's 1855 visit to Paris]]

In France, fireworks are traditionally displayed on the eve of Bastille day (14 July) to commemorate the French revolution and the storming of the Bastille on that same day in 1789. Every city in France lights up the sky for the occasion with a special mention to Paris that offers a spectacle around the Eiffel Tower.

File:Fireworks at the Danube.ogg

In Hungary fireworks are used on 20 August, which is a national celebration day 20. August-St. Stephen’s Day https://www.budapestbylocals.com/event/august-20th/ {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20171213064943/https://www.budapestbylocals.com/event/august-20th/ |date=13 December 2017 }} 20170823

{{see also|Chocolate bomb}}

Indians throughout the world celebrate with fireworks as part of their popular "festival of lights" (Diwali) in Oct-Nov every year.

During the summer in Japan, {{Nihongo|fireworks festivals|花火大会|hanabi taikai}} are held nearly every day someplace in the country, numbering more than 200 during August alone. 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. Street vendors set up stalls to sell various drinks and staple Japanese food (such as yakisoba, okonomiyaki, takoyaki, kakigōri (shaved ice), and traditionally held festival games, such as kingyo-sukui, or goldfish scooping.

Even today, men and women attend these events wearing the traditional yukata, summer kimono, or jinbei, and gather in large social circles of family or friends to sit picnic-like, eating and drinking, while watching the show.

The first fireworks festival in Japan was held in 1733 when Tokugawa Yoshimune, the eight shogun of the Edo Period, decreed a festival be held on the Sumida River on July 9th every year to mourn those who died in famine and other disasters. This event is recognized as the start of the Sumidagawa Fireworks Festival, and is one of the most recognizable fireworks festivals in Japan.{{Cite web |title=Seasons and Customs: Fireworks Festivals / The Government of Japan - JapanGov - |url=https://www.japan.go.jp/tomodachi/2014/womenomics_edition_2014/seasons_and_customs.html |access-date=2024-07-18 |website=The Government of Japan - JapanGov - |language=en}}

File:Malta - St. Paul's Bay - Malta International Fireworks Festival 09 ies.jpg

Fireworks have been used in Malta for hundreds of years. When the islands were ruled by the Order of St John, fireworks were used on special occasions such as the election of a new Grand Master, the appointment of a new Pope or the birth of a prince.{{cite web|title=The History of Fireworks in Malta|url=http://www.uniqueholidaymalta.com/about-us/news/detail/the-history-of-fireworks-in-malta|website=uniqueholidaymalta.com|access-date=8 February 2015|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150208183456/http://www.uniqueholidaymalta.com/about-us/news/detail/the-history-of-fireworks-in-malta|archive-date=8 February 2015}}

Nowadays, fireworks are used in village feasts throughout the summer. The Malta International Fireworks Festival is also held annually.{{cite web|title=Festas in Malta & Gozo|url=http://www.malta.com/en/events/festa|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150214043733/http://www.malta.com/en/events/festa|archive-date=14 February 2015|access-date=8 February 2015|website=malta.com}}

Pyrotechnics experts from around the world have competed in Monte Carlo, Monaco, since 1966. The festival runs from July to August every year, and the winner returns in 18 November for the fireworks display on the night before the National Day of Monaco.{{Cite web|title=Monaco – July/August: Monte-Carlo International Fireworks Festival|url=http://www.visitmonaco.com/us/Plan-your-stay/Annual-Events/July-August-Monte-Carlo-International-Fireworks-Festival|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110715020005/http://www.visitmonaco.com/us/Plan-your-stay/Annual-Events/July-August-Monte-Carlo-International-Fireworks-Festival|archive-date=15 July 2011|access-date=9 November 2015|website=www.visitmonaco.com}} The event is held in Port Hercule, beginning at around 9:30pm every night, depending on the sunset.{{Cite news|title = Monaco's International Fireworks Festival is back this July and August| newspaper=Italyrivieralps |date = 16 July 2015|url = http://www.italyrivieralps.com/2015/07/16/read-more/argomenti/events/articolo/monacos-international-fireworks-festival-is-back-this-july-and-august.html|access-date = 9 November 2015}}

{{Main|Singapore Fireworks Celebrations}}

File:Team Singapore fireworks display from Singapore Fireworks Festival 2006.jpg

The Singapore Fireworks Celebrations (previously the Singapore Fireworks Festival) is an annual event held in Singapore as part of its National Day celebrations. The festival features local and foreign teams which launch displays on different nights. While currently non-competitive in nature, the organizer has plans to introduce a competitive element in the future.

The annual festival has grown in magnitude, from 4,000 rounds used in 2004, to 6,000 in 2005, to more than 9,100 in 2006.{{citation needed|date=July 2017}}

{{see also|Busan International Fireworks Festival|Seoul International Fireworks Festival}}

Busan International Fireworks Festival is one of the most significant fireworks festivals in Asia.

In Switzerland fireworks are often used on 1 August, which is a national celebration day.{{Cite news|date=26 July 2016|title=Take care around fireworks, Swiss told|language=en|work=The Local.ch|url=https://www.thelocal.ch/20160726/swiss-alerted-to-august-1st-firework-risk|access-date=5 July 2017}}

One of the biggest occasions for fireworks in the UK is Guy Fawkes Night held each year on 5 November, to celebrate the foiling of the Catholic Gunpowder Plot on 5 November 1605, an attempt to kill King James I. The Guardian newspaper said in 2008 that Britain's biggest Guy Fawkes night events were:{{cite news|url=https://www.theguardian.com/travel/2008/oct/30/uk-bonfire-night-firework-displays|title=10 best bonfire night celebrations in the UK|author=Wills, Dixe|work=The Guardian|access-date=3 May 2016|date=30 October 2008}}

• After Dark fireworks, Sheffield
• Bangers on the Beach (Holyhead Round Table charity fireworks), Holyhead
• {{Sic|Bat|tel|hide=y}} Bonfire in Battle, East Sussex
• Blackheath Fireworks, London
• Bught Park fireworks, Inverness
• Fireworks with Vikings, Tutbury, Staffordshire
• Flaming Tar Barrels, Ottery St Mary
• Glasgow Green fireworks
• Halloween Happening fireworks, Derry
• Midsummer Common, Cambridge
• Sparks in the Park (Cardiff Round Table charity fireworks), Cardiff

The main firework celebrations in the UK are by the public who buy from many suppliers.

File:1 epcot illuminations 2010.jpg, the former nightly fireworks show at Epcot in Walt Disney World]]

America's earliest settlers brought their enthusiasm for fireworks to the United States. Fireworks and black ash were used to celebrate important events long before the American Revolutionary War.{{citation needed|date=July 2017}} The first celebration of Independence Day was in 1777, six years before Americans knew whether or not the new nation would survive the war; fireworks were a part of all festivities.{{citation needed|date=July 2017}} In 1789, George Washington's inauguration was accompanied by a fireworks display.{{citation needed|date=July 2017}}. George Marshall was an American naval hero during the War of 1812 and other campaigns. He was a Master Gunner and pyrotechnics specialist who wrote [https://books.google.com/books?id=lHcNBLcgVSQC&q=Marshall%27s+Practical+Marine+Gunnery Marshall's Practical Marine Gunnery] in 1822. The book outlines chemical formulas for the composition of fireworks.{{cite book |last= Marshall |first= George |author-link= |date= 1822 |title= Marshall's Practical Marine Gunnery |url= https://books.google.com/books?id=lHcNBLcgVSQC&q=Marshall%27s+Practical+Marine+Gunnery |location= Norfolk VA |publisher= C. Hall |page= 110 |isbn= }} This early fascination with fireworks' noise and color continues today with fireworks displays commonly included in Independence Day celebrations.

In 2004, Disneyland, in Anaheim, California, pioneered the commercial use of aerial fireworks launched with compressed air rather than gunpowder. 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.{{cite news|author=Walt Disney Company|date=28 June 2004|title=Disney debuts new safer, quieter and more environmentally-friendly fireworks technology|work=Press Release|url=http://corporate.disney.go.com/environmentality/press_releases/2004/2004_0628.html|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20041126165859/http://corporate.disney.go.com/environmentality/press_releases/2004/2004_0628.html|archive-date=26 November 2004}} The Walt Disney Company is now the largest consumer of fireworks in the world.{{cite AV media|title=Modern Marvels - Walt Disney World (History Channel)|people=Cindy Robinson; Jon Jefferson; Les Wooten|publisher=A&E Television Networks|year=2006|location=New York|time=44 minutes|asin=B000CS461O|isbn=9780767087896|oclc=64282449|medium=DVD}}

;Canada

Fireworks are a popular tradition during Halloween in Vancouver.

;Ireland

In the Republic of Ireland and Northern Ireland there are many fireworks displays, during Halloween. The sale of fireworks is strongly restricted in the Republic of Ireland, although many illegal fireworks are sold throughout October or smuggled from Northern Ireland. The maximum punishment for possessing fireworks without a licence, or lighting fireworks in a public place, is a €10,000 fine and a five-year prison sentence.{{Cite news |last=Barry |first=Aoife |date=27 October 2013 |title=Warning over fireworks danger – and €10,000 fine for using them illegally |url=http://www.thejournal.ie/fireworks-illegal-danger-penalties-ireland-1148113-Oct2013/ |access-date=8 February 2018 |work=The Journal}}

;United States

Two firework displays on All Hallows' Eve in the United States are the "Happy Hallowishes" show at Walt Disney World's Magic Kingdom "Mickey's Not-So-Scary Halloween Party" event, which began in 2005, and the "Halloween Screams" at Disneyland Park, which began in 2009.

{{Main|Consumer fireworks}}

In addition to large public displays, people often buy small quantities of fireworks for their own celebrations. Fireworks on general sale are usually less powerful than professional fireworks. Types include firecrackers, rockets, cakes (multishot aerial fireworks), and smoke balls.

Fireworks can also be used in an agricultural capacity as to frighten away birds.

{{Main|Fireworks competitions}}

Pyrotechnical competitions are held in many countries. Among them are the Montreal Fireworks Festival, an annual competition held in Montreal, Quebec, Canada; Le Festival d'Art Pyrotechnique, held in the summer annually at the Bay of Cannes in Côte d'Azur, France; and the Philippine International Pyromusical Competition, held in Manila, Philippines amongst the top fireworks companies in the world.

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.,{{cite web |title=CrackerJacks |url=http://www.crackerjacks.org/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160523155718/http://www.crackerjacks.org/ |archive-date=23 May 2016 |access-date=3 May 2016}} organized in 1976 in the Eastern Seaboard region.

Though based in the US, membership of the Pyrotechnics Guild International, Inc. (PGI){{cite web |title=PGI (Pyrotechnics Guild International) |url=http://www.pgi.org/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160517114343/http://www.pgi.org/ |archive-date=17 May 2016 |access-date=3 May 2016}} is annual convention founded in 1969, it hosts some the world's biggest fireworks displays occur. Aside from the nightly firework shows, one of the most popular events of the convention is a 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, most intricate fireworks displays in the United States take place during the convention week.

According to industry data, the purchase of fireworks by American consumers has markedly increased since the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic. In the year preceding the pandemic, the consumer fireworks industry reported sales of approximately $1 billion. However, this figure almost doubled in 2020, reaching $2.3 billion. In contrast, commercial fireworks sales amounted to a smaller figure of $400 million. For context, consumer fireworks revenue was significantly lower at $645 million in 2012, indicating a steady growth trend in the market. Industry projections currently anticipate a further increase, forecasting fireworks sales to reach $3.3 billion by 2028.{{cite news |last=Diaz |first=Clarisa |date=30 June 2023 |title=Americans are buying more fireworks than ever |url=https://qz.com/americans-are-buying-more-fireworks-than-ever-1850591105 |accessdate=3 July 2023 |work=Quartz (publication)}}

• List of fireworks accidents and incidents

{{Reflist}}

• Quote from Dave Whysall of Dave Whysall's International Fireworks located in Orton, ON. www.dwfireworks.com

• Melanie Doderer-Winkler, "Magnificent Entertainments: Temporary Architecture for Georgian Festivals" (London and New Haven, Yale University Press for The Paul Mellon Centre for Studies in British Art, December 2013). {{ISBN|0300186428}} and {{ISBN|978-0300186420}}.
• {{Cite book |last= Plimpton |first= George |title= Fireworks: A History and Celebration |year= 1984 |publisher= Doubleday |isbn= 0385154143 |url= https://archive.org/details/fireworks00plim }}
• {{Cite book|last= Brock |first= Alan St. Hill |title= A History of Fireworks |year= 1949 |publisher= George G. Harrap & Co}}
• {{Cite book|last= Russell |first= Michael S |title=The chemistry of fireworks |year= 2008 |publisher= Royal Society of Chemistry, Great Britain | isbn= 9780854041275 }}
• {{Cite book|last= Shimizu |first= Takeo |title=Fireworks: The Art, Science, and Technique |year= 1996 |publisher=Pyrotechnica Publications | isbn= 978-0929388052 }}
• {{Cite book|last= Werrett |first= Simon |title=Fireworks: Pyrotechnic Arts and Sciences in European History |year= 2010 |publisher=University of Chicago Press | isbn= 978-0226893778 }}

{{Commons category}}

• [https://www.pbs.org/wgbh/nova/kaboom/ NOVA Online Kaboom! with pyrotechnics, anatomy of fireworks, etc]
• [https://web.archive.org/web/20100327123345/http://www.canadianfireworks.org/ Canadian Fireworks Association ACP]
• Scientific American article, "[https://books.google.com/books?id=YIE9AQAAIAAJ Firework Formula]", 16-July-1881, pp. 42

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