So, you’re planning your first fireworks display. What kinds of fireworks should you be including? One of the first to investigate is the fabulous fountain, a staple of all the best fireworks shows and known for being a real crowd-pleaser.

Unlike other fireworks such as rockets, fountains don’t produce a large, dramatic aerial display. They are placed on the ground and fire a volcano of sparks upwards, which then pour to the ground in a gorgeous fountain shape. They create an impressive visual display and are great for use in between aerial firework bursts or to fill space near the ground.

Types of fountain and choosing the right one

First of all, you should only buy fireworks from a reputable provider. 1^st Galaxy Fireworks, for example, is a member of the British Pyrotechnics Association and has built up its reputation over 23 years of experience in the industry. What you shouldn’t do is buy bargain basement cheap fireworks from disreputable suppliers that offer no clue as to their quality, safety or reliability.

Now, as to which fountains to choose – here are a few points to consider…

The effects come in many sizes, shapes and spark colours, but the most powerful and impressive are generally thought to be those that keep it simple. For example, a silver spark fountain that doesn’t crackle or offer any other fancy effects. This is because they do not waste any energy on noise, colour or both – they can put all of their power into the height, size and strength of the fountain.

There are a number of varieties of fountains too, including:

• Conic fountains – these are the most popular type, known for their size and typical fountain shape. They tend to be quiet, only giving off a gentle ‘roar’ sound as they provide a consistent and lengthy fountain display. Why try these amazing new Cones Manufactured in Switzerland http://www.galaxy-fireworks.co.uk/shop/fountains/products/swiss-magic-light-fountain-.html 
• Gerbs – these are more professional versions of the conic fountain, often used by professional display organisers like 1^st
• Multi-effect fountains – these fountains offer some interesting effects to delight your guests, from crackles and multi-colours to even a ‘dancing’ movement
• Strobes and Bengal Blinkers – these increasingly popular fireworks are tiny fountains that flash on and off like a strobe light, producing very bright and exciting effects. They illuminate their own smoke, producing interesting shapes, shadows and colours. As they are so small, strobe fireworks are best used together in groups.

Using fountains in a display

Fountains are very good for quieter displays where you’re trying to keep the noise down (for example, to keep your neighbours happy). As they are quiet in operation, they can also provide a louder display with some contrast and suspense – both crucial elements for an exciting display. If you’ve got lots of aerial fireworks, fountains can provide interest on the ground and distract the audience while you prepare the next firing. They are quite different to other fireworks, so can be used in combination with other effects to create a fully rounded display.