Fireworks Definitions Page

Here are some of the definitions for fireworks. Before reviewing them, please understand a few things about them.

For more fireworks definitions, I highly recommend The Illustrated Dictionary Pyrotechnics from Journal of Pyrotechnics, Inc. (JOP). It has hundreds of definitions, illustrations and diagrams.

The current and correct US DOT classification for fireworks that replaced the old Class B classification. The most common classification is UN 0335 Fireworks, 1.3 and most Display Fireworks are now classified as 1.3G.

The 1.3 classification means the items as packed in this container or carton present "fire hazard and either a minor blast hazard or a minor projection hazard or both but not a mass explosion hazard". Some Display Fireworks that are smaller, such as gerbs, fountains, drivers, lance, and some components but that do not meet the requirement for CPSC Consumer fireworks are classified as 1.4G. See Class B.

The current and correct US DOT classification for fireworks that replaced the old Class C classification. The most common classification is UN 0336 Fireworks, 1.4 for Display or CPSC Consumer Fireworks, or UN 0432 Articles, Pyrotechnic 1.4 for Pyrotechnic Special Effects (SPFX). There are different packing groups that provide for different possible methods of transportation, hence the letters g or s after the 1.4.

The 1.4 classification means the items as packed in this container or carton present "no significant hazard beyond the package in the event of ignition or initiation during transport". Most CPSC Consumer Fireworks are now classified as 1.4G or 1.4S. Some fireworks classified as 1.4G are Display Fireworks that have more composition than is allowed by CPSC regulations or are not labeled for consumer use for fireworks available for sale to the general public. See Class C.

See Forbidden Explosive Device.

An additional piece(s) of paper, cardboard, plastic or wood placed on the bottom of a fireworks mortar or tube in order to give it added stability in order to hold it in an upright position for proper functioning. Mortar bases are usually wood or plastic and sometimes filled with clay. Tube bases are usually filled with some clay and can have a paper, cardboard or plastic base, while many small devices need only rely on their basic construction as a base. A larger or heavier base is needed to stabilize larger, more powerful fireworks, especially multiple mortar and multiple tube items.

A mixture of an organic fuel, oxidizer and fuel-binder. Upon ignition it produces a very rapid burning and smoke. When confined, it burns more rapidly or can produce an explosion, depending on the type, amount and the confinement pressure. Black powder is most commonly used in fireworks as a lift and burst charge, as an important ingredient in most pyrotechnic compositions, and in most fuses. Black powder is usually considered an explosive composition in fireworks.

Blackpowder is the "original" gunpowder of 75% potassium nitrate, 15% charcoal, and 10% sulfur. The formula today is the same as it has been for centuries. Modern smokeless gunpowder is usually single, double or triple-based propellants based on nitrocellulose, nitroglycerin, and nitroguanidine and are not used in fireworks.

The blackpowder charge inside an aerial shell. Upon ignition of the fuse, the lift charge ignites the internal time fuse at the same time it propels the shell into the sky. The time fuse then transfers fire slowly to the burst charge as the shell flies up into the sky, and upon reaching the burst charge, it then bursts or breaks the shell open, igniting and sending the internal stars and effects into a pattern. Burst charges are an explosive composition.

The use of an item by a business or individual for the purpose of generating business or income.

An obsolete DOT classification for fireworks that is still commonly used as the broad label for Display Fireworks. It was often used in an abbreviated way to describe all Display Fireworks. See 1.3.

An obsolete DOT classification for fireworks that is still commonly used as the broad label for CPSC Consumer Fireworks approved for sale to the general public. It was often used in an abbreviated way to describe all Common Fireworks. See 1.4.

The old designation for fireworks approved by the CPSC for sale to and use by the general public. See Consumer Fireworks.

Any small fireworks that produces a visible or audible effect by combustion or deflagration and that meet the requirements of the CPSC for the quantity of internal composition, construction, size, and labeling for sale to and use by the general public. They are typically classified as UN 0336 Fireworks, 1.4g or 1.4s by the US DOT. See Common Fireworks and Consumer Fireworks.

A small paper, cardboard or plastic ball, although sometimes they may be a cylinder, filled with stars or effects containing not more than 40 g (1.4 oz) of pyrotechnic composition, 1" to 3" in outside diameter, placed at the bottom of a heavy cardboard or paper mortar up to 3" (76 mm) inside diameter, attached to a wood or plastic base, with not more than 20 g (0.7 oz) of lift charge at the bottom underneath the pellet, and if a preload, with the fuse on one side or if a reloadable, with a long leader fuse from the shell through the top of the mortar.

A preloaded aerial shell in it's mortar with base, is placed on the ground, preferably a flat, hard surface. Upon ignition of the fuse, the lift charge functions and the time fuse ignited, the shell is propelled up to 100+ feet into the sky. While it flies into the sky the time fuse burns and when it reaches the burst charge, the shell breaks open and ignites the stars and/or effects.. Reloadable aerial shells are lowered to the bottom of the mortar using the leader fuse.

Aerial shells can also include components that are reports, which contain not more than 130 mg (2 grains) of explosive pyrotechnic composition. An aerial shell preload can be in a multiple mortar configuration, provided the mortars fire in sequence upon ignition of the one external fuse. Total pyrotechnic composition including, lift charges of any multiple mortar fireworks cannot exceed 200 g (7.1 oz).

A single pellet containing not more than 40 g (1.4 oz) of pyrotechnic composition, 1" to 3" in outside diameter, placed at the bottom of a heavy cardboard or paper mortar up to 3" (76 mm) inside diameter, attached to a wood or plastic base, with not more than 20 g (0.7 oz) of lift charge at the bottom underneath the pellet, and with the fuse on one side. A preloaded comet in it's mortar with base, preferably a flat, hard surface, and upon ignition of the fuse, the lift charge functions, the comet is ignited and propelled into the air in a shower of sparks up to 100+ feet into the sky. There is no burst or break in the sky in a comet and comets are a preload.

A comet can be in a multiple mortar configuration, provided the mortars fire in sequence upon ignition of the one external fuse. Total pyrotechnic composition including, lift charges of any multiple mortar fireworks cannot exceed 200 g (7.1 oz).

A cylindrical paper tube, usually up to 1/2" (12.7 mm) in outside diameter and 1" to 4" long, containing not more than 20 g (0.7 oz) of pyrotechnic composition, with a paper, cardboard or plastic propeller or blade is attached, and with a fuse on one end or in the middle. The helicopter(s) is placed in a hard, flat surface, often a sheet of plywood or sidewalk, and upon ignition of the fuse, the helicopter spins up to 75+ feet into the sky, with a trail of sparks, sometimes culminating with a visible or audible effect, or both.

A small paper bag or cardboard ball or cylinder filled with stars or effects containing not more than 40 g(1.4 oz) of pyrotechnic composition, 1 " to 3" in outside diameter, placed at the bottom of a heavy cardboard or paper mortar up to 3" (76 mm) inside diameter, attached to a wood or plastic base, with not more than 20 g (0.7 oz) of lift charge at the bottom underneath the bag or ball, and with the fuse on one side.

A preloaded mine shell in it's mortar with base, preferably a flat, hard surface, and upon ignition of the fuse, the lift charge functions, and the stars and effects are ignited and propelled into the air from the mortar, sending it rapidly in a shower of effects up to 100+ feet into the sky. There is no burst or break in the sky in a mine and mines are a preload.

Mines can also include components that are reports, which contain not more than 130 mg (2 grains) of explosive pyrotechnic composition. A mine can contain more than one mortar, provided the mortars fire in sequence upon ignition of the one external fuse. Total pyrotechnic composition including lift charges of any multiple tube device cannot exceed 200 g (7.1 oz).

A cylindrical paper tube, usually up to 1/2" (12.7 mm) in outside diameter and 1" to 6" long, containing not more than 20 g (0.7 oz) of pyrotechnic composition, sometimes with a conical paper or plastic cap on the front end and a fuse on the bottom end, with a set of paper, cardboard or plastic fins attached as a base and for guidance and stability. The missile(s) is placed in a hard, flat surface, and upon ignition of the fuse, the missile functions propelling it up to 75+ feet into the sky, where a burst of color or report or both is produced. Many missiles also whistle as they fly into the air.

A fireworks item with more than one mortar on a common base, and fused together so they fire sequentially after ignition of the single external fuse. It may be all aerial shells, comets or mines or combinations of them all. Bases are usually small square or rectangular wood boards, sometimes with outrigger sticks that swing out for added stability. Total pyrotechnic composition including, lift charges of any multiple mortar fireworks cannot exceed 200 g (7.1 oz). See Mortar.

A fireworks item with more than one tube on a common base or in a common package or bundle, and fused together so they fire sequentially or in a series after ignition of the single external fuse. Bases are a small wood board the broad base of the package or bundle of all the tubes, with clay added to the bottom of each tube for greater stability. Total pyrotechnic composition including, lift charges of any multiple tube fireworks cannot exceed 200 g (7.1 oz). See Roman Candle.

A heavy paper or cardboard tube 3" to 16" tall, usually no larger than 3/8" (9.5 mm) inside diameter and containing not more than 20 g (0.7 oz) of stars or effects and lift powders, with a fuse on the top. The roman candle(s) is placed about half way into a in a hole in the ground or a bucket filled with sand, or taped or tied to a stake inserted into the ground, and upon ignition of the fuse, the first lift charge functions, and the 5-10 balls or effects are ignited and propelled in succession, from the tube up to 75+ feet into the sky.

Many roman candles are sold in packages of half dozens or dozens and the more commonly found roman candles are in multiple tube fireworks configurations with many different effects available. Total pyrotechnic composition including, lift charges of any multiple tube fireworks cannot exceed 200 g (7.1 oz).

A cylindrical paper tube, usually up to 1/2" (12.7 mm) in outside diameter and 1" to 6" long, containing not more than 20 g (0.7 oz) of pyrotechnic composition, sometimes with a conical paper or plastic cap on the front end and a fuse on the back end, with a long, thin wooden stick attached for guidance and stability. The rocket(s) stick is placed in a paper or plastic tube, or a rack or other holder almost as long as the stick, with the fuse remaining accessible, and upon ignition of the fuse, the rocket functions propelling it up to 75+ feet into the sky, where a burst of color or report or both is produced. Many rockets also whistle as they fly into the air.

Smaller sky rockets were often were fired from soda or other long necked bottles which had the right length and stability to act as holders, and thus the name "bottle".

A small, paper-wrapped cylinder or cardboard tube, containing not more than 50 mg (0.8 grains) of explosive composition, most commonly flash powder, and 1" to 2¼" long, and 1/8" to 3/8" in diameter, and with a fuse on one end or the middle. The firecracker(s) is placed on the ground, preferably a flat, hard surface, or if in a string, hung from a post from a nail or peg or a pole from a string or rope, and upon ignition of the fuse, results in a sharp bang(s) or report(s) and bright flash(es).

Imported firecrackers are commonly paper cylinders with a red outer layer and sold in packs or bricks of hundreds or thousands of firecrackers all strung together with a common firecracker fuse for igniting them all at once. Domestic firecrackers are usually in small cardboard tubes with a red or silver label with a safety fuse in the middle and sold in bags of 10 or more.

A small, paper-wrapped cylinder or cardboard tube, containing not more than 20 g (0.7 oz) of pyrotechnic composition, and 1" to 2¼" long, and 1/8" to 3/8" in diameter, and with a fuse on one end or the middle. The chaser is placed on the ground, preferably a flat, hard surface, and upon ignition of the fuse, the chaser whistles or makes some other noise and moves along the ground for a few feet.

Some chasers end in a small report, with the report portion of the chaser containing not more than 50 mg (0.8 grains) of pyrotechnic composition.

CPSC Consumer Fireworks that contain combinations of effects or multiples of effects as described under aerial, audible, ground or novelty devices.

A small cylindrical cardboard or heavy paper tube, usually about 4" - 6" tall, containing not more than 75 g (2.6 oz) of pyrotechnic composition with the fuse on the top. The fountain is placed on the ground, preferably a flat, hard surface, in the ground with the spike, or in the hand with the handle, and upon ignition of the fuse, a shower of colored sparks usually a few feet in height is produced. Sometimes a whistling effect or smoke is also produced.

Cylindrical fountains have either a wood or plastic spike for insertion into the ground (Spike fountain); or a wood or plastic base for placing on the ground (Base fountain), or a wood or cardboard handle, for placing in the hand (Handle fountain). Where more than one fountain is mounted on a common base, total pyrotechnic composition cannot exceed 200 g (7.1 oz).

A small cardboard or heavy paper cone, usually about 6" - 8" tall, containing not more than 50 g (1.8 oz) of pyrotechnic composition with the fuse on the top. Cone fountains have no spike or handle, but some come with an additional base. The function and effect is the same as that of a cylindrical fountain. Where more than one fountain is mounted on a common base, total pyrotechnic composition cannot exceed 200 g (7.1 oz).

A small cylindrical narrow paper tube, usually about 1" - 3" long, filled with not more than 5 g (0.2 oz) of pyrotechnic composition, and attached to a wood stick or wire, usually less than 12" long, and usually with touch paper fuse on the end. The wood stick is held in the hand or inserted into the ground and upon ignition of the fuse, a shower of colored sparks, usually less than 12" in diameter is produced.

A small cylindrical cardboard or heavy paper tube fountain or fountains, usually about 2" - 4" long, with each containing not more than 20 g (0.7 oz) of pyrotechnic composition, with the fuse on one end. A single tube spinner has a vent on one side, while a multiple tube spinner has a nozzle from the bottom of the tube. The ground spinner is placed on the ground, preferably a flat, hard surface, and upon ignition of the fuse, a shower of colored sparks, usually less than 12" in length is produced. Sometimes a whistling effect or smoke is also produced. The fountain(s) act as drivers spinning the spinner on the ground like a top.

A small cylindrical cardboard or heavy paper tube, usually about 2" - 4" tall, containing not more than 100 g (3.5 oz) of pyrotechnic composition, with the fuse on the top. Torches are constructed and function in a similar fashion to cylindrical fountains, except the effect is a bright colored flame or strobing light effect that is usually about 6" - 12" in height. The torch is placed on the ground, preferably a flat, hard surface, in the ground with the spike, or in the hand with the handle, and upon ignition of the fuse, a bright colored or strobing flame usually a few feet in height is produced. Torches may be spike, base, or hand- held.

A small, paper-wrapped cylinder or cardboard tube, or a pressed round pellet, or plastic toy container in various shapes, sizes and colors, containing not more than 100 g (3.5 oz) of pyrotechnic composition, 1" to 2¼" long, and 1/8" to 3/8", or ¼" to 2" in diameter, and with a fuse on one end or the middle. The smoke device is placed on the ground, and upon ignition of the fuse, colored smoke emerges.

A small round or triangular wood or plastic frame, usually 6" to 12" in diameter, with 1, 2, 3 or more cylindrical cardboard or heavy paper tube fountain(s), each containing not more than 60 g (2.1 oz) of pyrotechnic composition, attached to the frame and fused together. The wheel has a center connector which is attached vertically to a post using a single nail or screw, or hung horizontally to a post or tree branch from a piece of string or wire, and upon ignition of the fuse, a shower of colored sparks, usually a few feet in length, and sometimes a whistling effect or smoke is also produced, with the fountain(s) acting as drivers and spinning the wheel at the same time.

Most Novelties are classified as Fireworks UN0336 1.4g or 1.4s by the US DOT and as Consumer Fireworks by the CPSC. Some items, such as some toy caps, are not fireworks but are considered toys.

A small paper tube up to 3/4" in outside diameter and 1" long containing not more than 16 mg (0.6 oz) of explosive composition that is friction-sensitive, with paper confetti inside and a string protruding from one end. When the string is pulled, the popper pops and the confetti streams out a few feet.

Snake, Glow Worm

A small pressed pellet less than 1" in diameter and with not more than 2 g (0.07 oz) of pyrotechnic composition. The pellet is placed on the ground, preferably a flat, hard surface, and upon ignition, it produces an expanding snake-like ash, usually less than 12" long.

A small, paper-wrapped ball less than 1/2" (12.7 mm) in diameter and containing not more than 1 mg (0.02 grains) of explosive composition, coated with small bits of sand, and packaged with sawdust. When dropped or thrown on a hard surface like a sidewalk, the device explodes, producing a small report.

A thin wood stick or wire, usually 12" long or less, with about ¾ of the length coated with not more than 100 g (3.5 oz) of pyrotechnic composition. One quarter of the wire or stick is bare and used as the handle, the tip is ignited by a match or other open flame or another sparkler, and upon ignition, a shower of colored sparks, usually less than 10" in diameter is produced.

Sparklers cannot contain magnesium, except magnalium (a magnesium-aluminium alloy) is permitted. Sparklers containing any chlorate or perchlorate salts cannot exceed 5 g (0.2 oz) of composition per unit. Devices containing any chlorate or perchlorate salts may not exceed 5 g of composition per item.

Toy Caps

A plastic or paper sheet, strip or roll or individual unit, each unit less than ½" (12.7 mm) wide and containing not more than 16 g (0.25 grains) of explosive composition. They are placed in toy cap guns or other toy device and when they are struck with the hammer, they pop.

CPSC Consumer Fireworks that are similar to those described under aerial, audible, ground or novelty devices and meet the requirements of the CPSC and DOT for that type and configuration of CPSC Consumer Fireworks. Many of these are items not generally available, but remain approved for sale and use.

A piece of bare match or other type of fuse on the inside of a fireworks attached to a time fuse or ignition. It transfers the fire from the ignition fuse to the time or ignition fuse and/or to the burst charge or composition inside to provide for more reliable fire transfer. Most commonly used in aerial shells.

Like calls "Safe & Sane", it is a definition that varies from state to state. In some states it is all fireworks, including sparklers and other novelties, while in others it may be just firecrackers or bottle rockets, while in still others it is all the forbidden fireworks like M-80s. See Safe & Sane Fireworks.

The expected remains after a fireworks functions or malfunctions in the air or on the ground. This includes the paper and cardboard tubes of fountains, the paper or plastic casings of aerial shells, the wood sticks or plastic fins or blades of missiles, rockets, and helicopters, paper or plastic tubes or mortars, the wood or plastic bases of fountains. It also includes the remains of the effects themselves, as well as inert powders and ash. See Fallout.

Any fireworks that produces a visible or audible effect by combustion or deflagration and that do not meet the requirements of the CPSC for the quantity of internal composition, construction, size, and labeling for sale to and use by the general public. They are classified as UN 03365Fireworks, 1.3g or 1.4g by the US DOT. See Special Fireworks.

A paper, cardboard or plastic ball, although sometimes they may be a cylinder, filled with stars or effects. They range in size from 2" to 36" in outside diameter, with 3" the most common size and 10" and 12" the largest size most frequently used.

Aerial shells are loaded into and fired from mortars. Upon ignition of the fuse, the lift charge functions and the time fuse ignited, the shell is propelled up to 200 to 3,000 feet into the sky. While it flies into the sky the time fuse burns and when it reaches the burst charge, the shell breaks open and ignites the stars and/or effects.

A single pellet of pyrotechnic composition, usually 2" to 6" in outside diameter. There is no burst or break in the sky in a comet.

Comets are loaded into and fired from mortars. Upon ignition of the fuse, the lift charge functions, the comet is ignited and propelled into the air in a shower of sparks up to 300+ feet into the sky. There is no burst or break in the sky in a comet.

A paper bag or cardboard ball or cylinder filled with stars or effects containing stars or effects and 2" to 8" in outside diameter.

Mines are loaded into and fired from mortars. Upon ignition of the fuse, the lift charge functions, the mine's stars or effects are propelled 100-500+ feet into the sky. There is no burst or break in the sky in a mine.

A fireworks item with more than one mortar on a common base or more commonly in a cardboard box, and fused together so they fire sequentially after ignition of the single external fuse. It may be all aerial shells, comets or mines or combinations of them all. They are usually 2" to 3" in diameter. See Mortar.

A fireworks item with more than one tube on a common base or in a common package or bundle, and fused together so they fire sequentially or in a series after ignition of the single external fuse. Bases are a small wood board the broad base of the package or bundle of all the tubes, with clay added to the bottom of each tube for greater stability. See Roman Candle.

A heavy paper or cardboard tube 12" to 36" tall, 3/8" (9.5 mm) to 3" (76 mm) inside diameter and containing stars or effects and lift powders, with a fuse on the top. The roman candle(s) is placed about half way into a in a hole in the ground or a bucket filled with sand, or taped or tied to a stake inserted into the ground, and upon ignition of the fuse, the first lift charge functions, and the stars or effects are ignited and propelled in succession, from the tube up to 75 to 300+ feet into the sky.

Many roman candles are sold in packages of half dozens or dozens and the more commonly found roman candles are in multiple tube fireworks configurations with many different effects available.

A cylindrical paper tube, usually up to 1/2" (12.7 mm) in outside diameter and 1" to 6" long, sometimes with a conical paper or plastic cap on the front end and a fuse on the back end, with a long, thin wooden stick attached for guidance and stability. The rocket(s) stick is placed in a rack or other holder almost as long as the stick, with the fuse remaining accessible, and upon ignition of the fuse, the rocket functions propelling it up to 75 to 300+ feet into the sky, where a burst of color or report or both is produced. Many rockets also whistle as they fly into the air.

Sky rockets are rarely used in displays anymore.

A small, paper-wrapped cylinder or cardboard tube, containing not more than 130 mg (2.0 grains) of explosive composition, most commonly flash powder, and 1" to 3" long, and 1/8" to 1/2" in diameter, and with a fuse on one end or the middle. The firecracker(s) is placed on the ground, preferably a flat, hard surface, or if in a string, hung from a post from a nail or peg or a pole from a string or rope, and upon ignition of the fuse, results in a sharp bang(s) or report(s) and bright flash(es).

Imported firecrackers are commonly paper cylinders with a red outer layer and sold in packs aka bricks or rolls of hundreds or thousands of firecrackers all strung together with a common firecracker fuse for igniting them all at once.

Display Fireworks that contain combinations of effects or multiples of effects as described under aerial, audible, ground or novelty devices.

A cylindrical cardboard or heavy paper tube, usually about 4" - 6" tall and 1/2" to 6" in diameter, containing a pyrotechnic composition with the fuse on the top. The fountain is placed on the ground, preferably a flat, hard surface or in the ground with the spike, and upon ignition of the fuse, a shower of colored sparks 4 to 40 feet in height is produced. Sometimes a whistling effect or smoke is also produced.

Cylindrical fountains have either a wood or plastic spike for insertion into the ground (Spike fountain); or a wood or plastic base for placing on the ground (Base fountain).

Fountains are also used as drivers on wheels.

A small cylindrical cardboard or heavy paper tube, usually about 2" - 4" tall and 1/2" to 6", containing a pyrotechnic composition, with the fuse on the top. Torches are constructed and function in a similar fashion to cylindrical fountains, except the effect is a bright colored flame or strobing light effect that is usually about 6" - 12' in height. Torches may be spike or base.

A wooden frame with hundreds or even thousands of lances attached and fuse together in the shape of a character, emblem, logo or words. Lances are small flares 3" to 4" tall and 1/4" to 3/8" in diameter with a pyrotechnic composition.

Lances are usually nailed with double pointed nails, and glued to rattan or wood frames and then fused together with quickmatch. The lancework is placed on a pole(s) in the ground, and upon ignition of the fuse, the quickmatch rapidly ignites all the lances which burn in brightly colored or strobing flames 2" to 6" in height, so the words or figure appears.

Lancework is often the American flag or the Statue of Liberty or words like Welcome or Goodnight. They can be as small as 2' x 2' or as large as an outdoor billboard.

Sometimes roman candles, fountains are added to the lancework as well.

A cylindrical cardboard or heavy paper tube, usually about 4" - 6" tall and 1/2" to 6" in diameter, containing a pyrotechnic composition with the fuse on the top. The device is placed on the ground, preferably a flat, hard surface or in the ground with the spike, and upon ignition of the fuse, a colored smoke 10 to 100 feet in height is produced.

A round or triangular wood or plastic frame, usually 6" to 12' or more in diameter, with 1, 2, 3 or more cylindrical cardboard or heavy paper tube fountain(s) or driver(s), each containing a pyrotechnic composition, attached to the frame and fused together. The wheel has a center connector which is attached vertically to a post using a single nail or screw, or hung horizontally to a post or tree branch from a piece of string or wire, and upon ignition of the fuse, a shower of colored sparks, usually a few feet in length, and sometimes a whistling effect or smoke is also produced, with the fountain(s) acting as drivers and spinning the wheel at the same time.

Wheels can either be horizontal or vertical.

Products that are made and sold in the same country. Most fireworks with company names that sound American are actually made in the US, such as Precocious, Rozzi, Starr, Pyro Products, Patriotic, Atomic, Dapkus, Apollo, and some others and they are generally of high quality. Others may have an American company sounding name, but the fireworks inside are really imported ..... but because the value of the labeling and packaging is greater than the fireworks inside, they can claim or imply they were "Made in the USA". Contrast with Imported.

The audible or visible result of a fireworks device functioning. Audible effects include pops, bangs or reports, crackles, whistles and the like. Visible effects include trails or showers of colored sparks, jets of colored flames, plumes of colored smoke, individual trails or patterns of colored stars. Some devices have more than one effect.

The dry chemical ingredients that are inside of fireworks. When they explode they create the audible and visible effects or provide the energy for them to function. Blackpowder and flash powder are examples. Contrast with Pyrotechnic Composition.

The expected debris from aerial fireworks after it functions in the air. This includes the paper or plastic casings of aerial shells or the wood sticks or plastic fins of missiles, rockets, and helicopters. It also includes the remains of the effects themselves, usually inert powders and ash, whistle or report tubes. Some of the debris may not have all been fully consumed during functioning.

The clear area where the expected debris from aerial fireworks or any duds falls. Fallout areas are usually open spaces without people, animals, inhabited buildings or readily combustible materials.

Any composition or device that functions by combustion, deflagration or detonation and creates an audible or visible effect and used primarily for entertainment. They are divided into CPSC Consumer Fireworks, items that meet CPSC requirements for sale to and use by the general public, or Display Fireworks, devices that require either a federal and/or state license(s) or permit(s) to purchase or use.

Exception: Model and sport rockets, many toy caps and some novelties and trick noisemakers.

Exception: Explosive devices that are no longer classified as fireworks by the federal government and are forbidden. Examples: M-80s, silver salutes, cherry bombs, quartersticks, cannon crackers and other similar large powerful explosive devices.

See Consumer Fireworks, Display Fireworks and Forbidden Explosive Device.

A chemical composition of a fine metal powder and an oxidizer. Upon ignition it produces a bright flash and usually an audible report, even when not confined inside a paper or cardboard tube. Flash powder is most commonly used in CPSC Consumer Fireworks firecrackers and components that create reports in aerial shells. It is also the principle composition in most forbidden fireworks, although in much larger quantities than permitted in CPSC Consumer Fireworks. Flash powder is an explosive composition.

A federal term for any hand held explosive device that creates an audible effect and exceeds 130 mg (2 grains) of pyrotechnic composition and is sold or offered for sale to the general public for personal use. These devices are now forbidden in interstate commerce and in all states, except when used for agricultural pest control devices. They are also often known as "dangerous fireworks" or "banned fireworks" and are commonly known as M-80s, silver salutes, cherry bombs, quartersticks, cannon crackers and other similar large powerful explosive devices. While they were once "fireworks" prior to 1966 and earlier in the century and sold to the general public without restriction, they are no longer defined as fireworks.

Note: Some firecrackers, smoke bombs and other fireworks may have brand names, labels, construction or configurations that seem as if they are the same as some of the fireworks that once were legal, but now are forbidden. They are not forbidden nor are they as powerful as their namesakes. Examples are M-80s, Silver Salutes, and cherry bombs. See Consumer Fireworks.

The performance of a fireworks device as designed, intended, desired and planned for. The functioning of a fireworks device creates the effects. In some fireworks devices it also includes the spinning, flight or bursting that creates, enhances or places the effects into the sky. Examples of functioning are the bursting of a firecracker or report, the flight of a rocket, missile or helicopter, the spinning of a wheel or spinner, the combustion of a composition that creates a colored smoke, the lift and burst of an aerial shell, the combustion of a confined composition through a nozzle creating a whistle sound, spraying of a shower of sparks or flame and the like. Some devices have more than one function. Contrast with Malfunction.

A mixture of an organic fuel, oxidizer and fuel-binder with nitrocellulose. Upon ignition it produces a very rapid burning and smoke. When confined, it burns more rapidly or can produce an explosion, depending on the type, amount and the confinement pressure. Gunpowder is not used in fireworks because it is made in finer powder than blackpowder, and that feature plus the addition of nitrocellulose makes it too progressive of a propellant for fireworks use. It is also more expensive than black powder. See Blackpowder.

A short piece of string or twine impregnated or treated with a pyrotechnic composition or blackpowder. Fuses are the point of ignition and method for fire transfer from each the ignition point to the internal pyrotechnic composition(s) or stage(s) of a fireworks device.

A fuse that is external is an ignition fuse and it is usually 1" to 2" long on CPSC Consumer Fireworks and 6" to 6' long on Display Fireworks. It is ignited using punk, a fusee (railroad fusee), match, lighter or portfire and transfers to the pyrotechnic composition or internal fuses. Internal fuses transfer fire from the external fuse to the pyrotechnic composition or each tube in a multiple-tube fireworks or they are time fuses inside aerial shells.

Most domestic CPSC Consumer Fireworks have safety fuse aka visco fuse, which is usually a green, red or blue in color thick, stiff thread.

Most Display Fireworks have a quickmatch leader for their ignition use, although some have fuses similar to Consumer Fireworks.

Most imported smaller fireworks have "firecracker fuse", which is usually 2-3 light colored strings entwined together, or touch paper, which is simply a small series of twisted papers.

Fuses inside an aerial shell are called a time fuse. See Leader Fuse, Safety Fuse and Time Fuse and contrast with Fusee aka Railroad Flare.

CPSC Consumer Fireworks fuses, with the exception of fuses on firecrackers and some ground spinners, are supposed to transfer fire to the lift charge or internal pyrotechnic composition within 3 - 6 seconds. Some other devices, such as roman candles or multiple tube and multiple mortar fireworks, may have a fuse burn time of up to 12 seconds.

A wax paper tube 8-10" long filled with a pyrotechnic composition that burns at a steady rate for 5-20 minutes. They are most often red and are used to ignite fireworks, usually aerial fireworks, multiple tube fireworks, roman candles, etc. for a backyard display. Contrast with Fuse.

The US DOT general classification for all items and commodities that require special packaging, handling, storage and transportation requirements when in transported in commerce. CPSC Consumer Fireworks, Display Fireworks and some novelties are classified as explosives which are hazardous materials.

Many commonly used items and commodities are hazardous materials according to the DOT such as matches, lighters, charcoal lighter fluid, charcoal, bleach, paints and solvents, small arms ammunition, CPSC Consumer Fireworks and many others.

The transfer of fire from one source to another. External ignition in fireworks is usually accomplished by punk, a match, lighter, fusee (railroad fusee) or portfire or another fireworks, such as a sparkler to sparkler. Internal ignition is usually accomplished from the external fuse to an internal fuse(s) and then to the pyrotechnic composition or lift charge or burst charge.

A federal term for any for any explosive device that is illegal according to federal regulations. This includes bombs of almost all types and sizes, as well as Forbidden Explosive Devices. What is illegal depends a great deal on who has it and what their intent is, as much as what it is. Many items can be legally manufactured, owned, sold and used with the proper licenses and permits or for very specific purposes. See Forbidden Explosive Device.

A general term used whenever fireworks are deemed to be illegal by a government entity or law enforcement agency in their jurisdiction. It does not mean that device is illegal in all jurisdictions or under all circumstances. What is illegal depends a great deal on who has it and what their intent is, as much as what it is. See Forbidden Explosive Device.

Products that are made in one country and brought into another country for sale. Fireworks made in China or Macau or other countries will have a statement on them where they were made or the carton they were shipped in. Black Cat, China Pyrotechnics, and many others are examples of imported. Products can also "imported" into one state from another. In order to import fireworks into the US requires a federal license and generally purchases are made in 40 foot containers. CA is one state that also requires an import license, which is very expensive, even for fireworks made in the US! Contrast with Domestic.

The offer to sell or transfer, or the sale or transfer of a product or service for business use from one state to another, or within one state by or using interstate means or resources.

The offer to sell or transfer, or the sale or transfer of a product or service for business use within one state only, and not using interstate means or resources.

A piece of quickmatch, 6" to 6' long, and the ignition fuse on an aerial shell or display fireworks. A leader is attached to the crossmatch and passfire in an aerial shell. See Fuse.

The blackpowder charge underneath aerial mines, shells and comets, and stars and effects in roman candles. When fire is transferred from the fuse to the lift charge, the lift charge functions rapidly creating gas which is confined in the mortar or tube and thus both igniting and propelling the effects into the sky. In aerial shells, the lift charge often ignites the internal time fuse, in comets it ignites the pellet and in mines the stars and effects. In roman candles and similar fireworks, there are as many lift charges as levels of effects contained in the tube. Lift charges are an explosive composition.

The performance of a fireworks device in some way other than was designed, intended, desired or planned for by the manufacturer or user. Malfunctions include the following:

An aerial fireworks that functions only partially. The fuse is ignited and the aerial shell, aerial mine, missile, rocket, helicopter or device is fired into the air, however the device fails to function in the air as designed and lands on the ground without functioning.

An aerial fireworks that after ignition, functions prematurely in the mortar or tube instead of firing into the sky. The mortar or tube withstands the effect functioning inside. For aerial shells from mortars and some roman candles with bursting effects, the lift fails to propel the shell or star into the air and the effect is similar to a mine effect. A flowerpot may damage the mortar so it is no longer viable for reloading. Contrast with Mortar or tube burst.

An aerial fireworks that functions only partially. The fuse is ignited and the aerial shell, aerial mine, missile, rocket, helicopter or device is fired into the air, however the device fails to function and lands on the ground where it then functions.

A fireworks device with a fuse fails to burn at the expected rate of speed after ignition, but does not go out completely. It may resume burning at the proper rate of speed and then transfer fire so the device functions. Hangfires are difficult to assess and pose a great deal of risk, especially if someone approaches a device with a hangfire too soon after ignition and attempts to re-light it. Hangfires have been known to last for as long as 30 minutes and wind or movement can fan a glowing cinder and re-ignite the fuse, causing it to function almost immediately.

An aerial shell that functions low to the ground instead of at the zenith. The effects of a lowbreak may hit the ground.

An aerial shell or mine, roman candle or other device, that after ignition, functions prematurely in the mortar, tube or casing instead of firing into the sky. The mortar, tube or casing does not withstand the effect functioning inside and bursts, sending the lift gasses and/or effects out at all different angles, including horizontally, instead of into the sky, and sometimes damaging any adjacent mortars and tubes, possibly tipping them over and firing effects at low angles. A mortar burst will damage the mortar so it is no longer viable for reloading. Contrast with Flowerpot.

The use of fireworks for purposes other than entertainment, or use that places people, animals or property at risks greater than is prudent given the fireworks and conditions at that place and time. Misuse includes using fireworks in pranks to surprise or scare people or animals deliberately; very late or after hours; use by children without proper training or supervision by adults; use while under the influence of alcohol or drugs; changing, modifying or adapting fireworks so they function significantly differently; or use inside or near or in a crowd of people, dry vegetation, grass or forests or areas where hazardous materials (flammable gasses, liquids or solids such as gasoline, propane, grain, etc.) are used or stored, or not following the instructions, or common sense.

A cardboard, plastic or steel pipe that is closed on one end and open on the other end, 4" to 24' tall, with an inside diameter (ID) of 1" to 36", with the smaller and larger dimensions less common. CPSC Consumer Fireworks mortars are usually 1 3/4" to 3" in diameter and often come with a wooden or plastic base and some clay added for greater stability, with some multiple mortar fireworks having 2 - 6 mortars on a base for larger calibers. Display Fireworks mortars are 2" to 36" and are most often made of High Density Polyethylene (HDPE). Mortars are used to launch aerial shells, comets and mines. Contrast with Tube and see Multiple Mortar Fireworks.

A term unique to Indiana. People can only purchase Consumer Fireworks that fly through the air or go bang if they sign a form declaring they will take them "out-of-state", hence the term "out-of-state fireworks". The exception is if they are used in designated fireworks areas which are operated by the Indiana Fireworks Users Assoc., Inc. which arranges the required permits and sites for Indiana residents to enjoy their "out-of-state fireworks" in the state.

Minimum specifications or performance standards for wrappers, cards, bags, cartons or boxes of CPSC Consumer Fireworks. Packaging requirements vary from item to item and are necessary to meet DOT and CPSC regulations for shipment, storage and sales.

A piece of bare match, 2" to 20" long, from the leader fuse to the crossmatch and/or time fuse and to the lift charge inside an aerial shell or display fireworks. The passfire transfers fire from the leader fuse to the crossmatch/and or time fuse and to the lift charge.

A common term used in some states for the fireworks permitted for sale to residents of that state. Contrast with Illegal Fireworks.

The use of an item by individuals for their own enjoyment, pleasure or entertainment. The item is not purchased for the purpose of generating business or gross income. See Business use.

A fireworks device that comes loaded in the package, tube(s) or mortar(s) and in a ready-to-use condition. Preloads only need to be placed in position and ignited. All fountains, roman candles, multiple mortar and multiple tube fireworks, and most aerial shells, comets and mines and some smaller missiles and rockets and other fireworks are preloads. Contrast with Reloadable.

A wooden stick about 12" long with about 3/4 of the length covered with a light brown coating. They resemble a stick of incense and operate in much the same way, but without the fragrance. Punk is ignited at the tip using a match or lighter and is then used to ignite the fuse on fireworks. The advantage is it is easy to see when a fuse is ignited, it provides some distance between the person igniting the fireworks and the fireworks, they bum for a few minutes allowing multiple ignitions, and they are not an open flame that can accidentally ignite other devices or things.

The art and science of developing, manufacturing and displaying fireworks. It is also synonymous with fireworks, and also can mean the fireworks themselves.

The dry chemical ingredients that are inside of fireworks. When they burn rapidly they create the audible and visible effects. Stars and whistle composition and are examples. Contrast with Explosive Composition.

A pack of 5-6 small aerial shells with a cardboard mortar, often with a base. CPSC standards now limit reloadable aerial shells to less than 1.5" in diameter. Display fireworks aerial shells are reloadable.

An effect that repeats over and over from the same mortar or tube. Roman candles are the most common repeating effect, with 5-10 stars being fired into the air from the same cardboard or paper tube. Some multiple tube fireworks are also repeaters, although most simply fire one star or effect from each of a number of tubes.

Every state seems to have a different definition of what retail sales are, and these can vary somewhat from commodity to commodity. Often the definitions seem to have more to do with what items and types of sales have sales taxes applied than anything else.

Basically retail sale means the sale directly to the end user or consumer. Some areas are very definitive as to what a "retail" sale is while others aren't. There are many variations from state to state in the dates available for sale, quantities, methods of purchase and transportation from the outlet to the consumer and of course licenses, permits and standards for the retailer.

For example in some states, retailers must buy a license and they are not always inexpensive. Another state may require expensive sprinkler and alarm systems for the storage area or stock room, while another may restrict the types of buildings and their locations, as in requiring they be 1,000 feet away from schools. One state has a limit on the number of licenses available for any fireworks facility.

Retail also is the term for display fireworks sold to the end user, such as a community organization that performs their own displays. Contrast with Wholesale.

In some states cones, sparklers, and novelties are "safe and sane", while in other states only sparklers and novelties are "safe & sane:, while in other states, all CPSC Consumer Fireworks are "safe & sane" as opposed to "illegal" or "dangerous fireworks". Will the real "Safe & Sane" please standup! This is a term some fireworks companies developed in the 50s and 60s with regulators and politicians in an effort to distinguish their products from M-80s, cannon crackers, etc. See Consumer Fireworks.

A fuse consisting of a thread wrapped black powder train and covered with an external water resistant coating. Safety fuse is commonly 3/32" (2.4 mm) in outside diameter and green in color, although there are also some that are thicker or red or blue in color. Safety fuse is classified as Fuse, Safety UN 0105 1.4S. See Fuse.

High impact plastic pair of glasses, often with a side guard and head strap. Safety glasses provide eye protection and are highly recommended, especially for the person(s) igniting aerial fireworks.

A assortment of Display Fireworks organized with instructions so that a community group can purchase it from a display fireworks retailer and perform it themselves. Ship shows are often in different amounts from $500 to $10,000 so volunteer fire departments or city employees can purchase them easily depending on their budgets. They usually include a number of 3" to 6" aerial shells, finale boxes and sometimes candle batteries and setpieces.

The old ATF designation for Display Fireworks. See Display Fireworks.

A small pellet, usually 1/4" to 2" in diameter, of pyrotechnic composition that are the color effects in roman candles, aerial shells and aerial mines. Stars are usually gray or black, sometimes with shiny metal speckles, and are like miniature charcoal briquettes. They can be round, spherical or random shapes and sizes. Stars are pressed, rolled, cut or pumped. They are often known as balls, especially when used in roman candles.

A short piece of string or twine impregnated or treated with an internal pyrotechnic composition or blackpowder that is connected to the fuse and the break charge in an aerial shell. Time fuses are usually about 1/4" thick, white or cream color with different color twine revolving around them, with a blackpowder core. See Fuse.

A plastic or cardboard cylinder that is closed on one end, usually with a clay plug, and open on the other end, 2" to 16" tall, with an inside diameter (ID) of 1/4" to 1". CPSC Consumer Fireworks tube items range from devices that are a single tube like a roman candle with repeating effects and a single fuse, to multiple tube fireworks of up to 91 or more tubes banded together by string, twine or paper and chained together with a fuse(s) and often extra clay added to the tubes for greater stability. Tubes are used to launch individual smaller stars and effects into the air, or series of small stickless rockets and missiles. Contrast with Mortar.

Like retail, every state seems to have a different definition of what wholesale sales are. Basically wholesale sale means the sale of an item in commerce, in bulk, in case lots or in large quantities. It includes, but is not exclusively the sale for the purpose of using the item to generate income or for resale to others either at the wholesale or retail level.

Many of the outlets in the US are "wholesale" simply because they can sell fireworks in interstate commerce, as long as it is a wholesale transaction and the fireworks are in a sealed box and transported out of state. These operations exist even though they cannot sell intrastate, unless the purchaser has a license or permit, which in some states are difficulty to obtain or afford.

This is why one almost never sees a "retail" store, even in states where retail sales of fireworks are allowed. The marketing of fireworks now demands every outlet be "wholesale" in order to be perceived as having a wide variety and good prices, even when it is not.

Some of these stores are in states that ban some CPSC Consumer Fireworks like firecrackers and bottle rockets, but not all types. Often they are along major highways that tourists from other states travel along or just across the border from states where fireworks are banned, restricted, or limited. Contrast with Retail.

Revised July 17, 1998