Planning something really big for your next fireworks display? If you want to bring out the big rockets and powerful pyrotechnics, you’ll need to do a little extra planning. This is to firstly ensure you can carry out the display safely, but also so that your fireworks make maximum impact.

Here are 6 of the most important things to remember if you’re planning to use powerful fireworks:

1. You can only use Category 1, 2 or 3 fireworks

Category 1 fireworks are for indoor use, Category 2 are for garden use and Category 3 is where you’ll find some of the largest fireworks on retail sale. These are display fireworks, and you’ll have plenty of big, loud and impressive products to choose from. There is a level above this, Category 4 fireworks, but you aren’t permitted to use these unless you’re a professional fireworks display operative.

2. Your site needs to be large enough

The bigger and more powerful the firework, the more dangerous it could potentially be. If you’re using Category 3 fireworks, your site needs to large enough to accommodate a safety zone of at least 25 metres between the firing zone and the spectators. You’ll also need to leave room for a fallout zone.

3. Plan a large fallout zone

Fireworks like display rockets, which come down to earth at speed and sometimes with some of the stick, casing and parts of the head still attached, can be dangerous. If you’re planning to use these, you’ll need to leave space for a large fallout zone – at least 50 metres or more. The fallout zone is where you expect fireworks to land, so should be clear space where the debris can be caught safely.

4. Keep a close eye on the wind

Where you position your fallout zone, and the orientation of your whole site in fact, depends to a large degree on the wind. Keep a close eye on the forecast for the wind direction and speed ahead of your event, and be prepared to make last minute adjustments.

5. Put the larger fireworks at the back

If you put the most powerful fireworks at the back, near to the fallout zone – and keep an eye on the wind direction – this gives you extra space between the big guns and the audience. You should also aim to angle the position of big fireworks like rockets slightly so that they will fly over the fallout zone, accounting again for the wind.

6. You’ll need to keep your neighbours on side

If you’re planning something big, there’s the risk that you may annoy or upset your neighbours. Always, always inform them in advance, and perhaps invite them along or provide a small gift to apologise for any inconvenience. After all, it’s hard to be annoyed when you’re tucking into a complimentary box of chocolates!

If you need help planning a large fireworks display, consult the professionals at 1^st Galaxy Fireworks – our experts will be happy to assist.