Fireworks Trivia

FIREWORKS TRIVIA

Common Class C fireworks are usually manufactured to have a high ignition point. The CPSC regularly tests Class C items for public use at temperatures up to 169şF for 48 hours. Fireworks which do not meet federal regulations are returned or destroyed at the importer's expense. U.S. manufactured fireworks have to meet very rigid test requirements and therefore cost more to produce. Failure rate is reported to be lower than some imports. A good point to remember is that since most fireworks are handmade, caution should be used with every item to be displayed.

Yes, sparklers can be dangerous when used improperly. It was reported a few years ago that a common sparkler was held too close to a child's dress and within a few seconds she was in flames. The child suffered from some serious burns.

Contrary to some people's belief, fireworks should not be used by minors under any circumstance. Quote from an "1885" fireworks catalog!

They say that the two most dangerous months for setting off fireworks in the northeast U.S. are November and March -- due to yearly ground and weather conditions.

Tests have shown that moisture or dampness renders most fireworks more uncertain and dangerous or altogether useless.

Common Class C fireworks, which are manufactured for public use are banned in certain parts of the U.S. Approximately 38 states legalized some forms of fireworks. Each state is different with regard to laws regulating the sale, use, and storage of fireworks - especially Class B exhibition grade fireworks. In some states, the local authorities decide if they want their citizens to possess and use Class C fireworks. All major cities across the U.S. forbid the use of any kind of fireworks devices except as prescribed by law. If a fireworks device is offered for sale and has no label or instructions don't buy it or set it off!

Cherry Bombs, Ash Cans, Quarter Sticks, Half Sticks, etc., have been outlawed in the U.S. since the mid-60s. A legitimate fireworks company does not consider these devices fireworks nor should they promote them in any way.

Practically all fireworks manufacturing explosions in the U.S. and abroad are the result of illegal and unlicensed manufacturers of low explosive devices such as M-80s, Quarter sticks, etc.

During WWII, the first bomb dropped on Tokyo, Japan was made by a fireworks company in the U.S. At the time of national need, most fireworks companies changed to war time production as was the case in WWI and the Civil War.

In the early 30s the American Rocket Society used spent sky rocket bodies in their early rocket experiments.

One of the earliest fireworks companies in the U.S. was the Rochester Fireworks Company established in 1836. Unexcelled Company was established in 1876. Both were located in New York.

At present there is a group of American fireworks experts studying the feasibility of making and firing a 75" shell. Largest one constructed to date was 52" in diameter, and fired by a Japanese company over Mount Fuji.

Most professional display companies use 3" to 6" shells in their display. If room and safety conditions permit 8" to 16" shells may be employed. 24" fancy shells occasionally have been used for special occasions costing about $3,500 a shot.

Some of the most famous fireworks display companies in the U.S. are Grucci of Long Island, NY, Austin Fireworks of Kansas, Southern International in Alabama, and Ruggieri of France established 1734 (Washington D.C. office)