New Year’s Eve is fast approaching, and with it comes the enchanting tradition of the fireworks that welcome in the New Year with a spectacular display in the sky. The twinkle of lights, the explosion of color in the darkness, and the deafening boom of explosions have us all spellbound. But there is a downside, as with many fascinating things in life. The dangers that lurk in the purchase and transportation of consumer fireworks.
Let’s dive into this blog post together. We’ll highlight the hidden risks, but most importantly, we’ll look at how you can make your New Year’s Eve safe and memorable.
What you should consider when buying
Before purchasing your New Year’s Eve fireworks, make sure they come from reputable, licensed vendors. Such products can be unpredictable and extremely dangerous. Never buy illegal or homemade fireworks on the black market.
Make sure that the fireworks meet applicable safety standards and have the necessary approvals. The registration number and the CE mark, which is linked to the identification number of the testing laboratory, will tell you that a firework is safe. Testing is important and fireworks must bear both of these marks. The first four digits of the registration number indicate which of the recognized testing laboratories in Europe has carried out a thorough inspection of the firework article. If you see the registration number 0589, you know that BAM has contributed its expertise.
0589 – F2 – 1234″ is an example of such a registration number. The “F2” stands for category F2 fireworks, while the “1234” is a sequential number.
(Source BAM)
In Germany, certain categories of fireworks are permitted for private individuals, while others may be restricted or prohibited.
The amusement fireworks are divided into 4 categories:
Category F1 = Small fireworks such as “sparklers”
Category F2 = small fireworks such as “New Year’s Eve rockets” from 18 years of age
Category F3 = medium fireworks such as “rockets” from the age of 18 with the appropriate permit or a certificate of competence (pyrotechnician)
Category F4 = large fireworks not commercially available
And remember, a German instruction manual must also be provided. This will ensure that you can enjoy your fireworks responsibly and to the full.
How many fireworks can I transport in my car as a private individual?
There is no doubt that fireworks are fascinating pyrotechnic devices, but it is important to know that they are also classified as dangerous goods. When it comes to how much fireworks you can transport without breaking the law, there are clear rules for individuals.
Individuals are allowed to transport F1 and F2 fireworks, which are classified as Hazard Class 1.4, up to a gross weight of 50 kg. The gross weight refers to the total weight including all pyrotechnic substances, materials and packaging.
Fireworks of categories F1 and F2, which are assigned to hazard classes 1.1 to 1.3, may be transported up to a gross weight of 5 kg, provided that they are packaged in accordance with the regulations for the retail trade.
However, it is important to be aware that dangerous goods regulations are also in force. Safety is always paramount. Following these regulations will help ensure that your fireworks display remains safe and spectacular.
Storage
When it comes to the private storage of category F1 and F2 fireworks, clear guidelines also apply here to ensure safety. Here are the details to help you store them safely:
- Inhabited rooms: Fireworks of categories F1 and F2 with a maximum net explosive mass (NEM) of 1 kg may be stored privately in an inhabited room. The NEM information can be found on the packaging or packaging unit.
- Unoccupied rooms in residential buildings: In an unoccupied room within a residential building, such as an unused guest room or laundry room, fireworks of categories F1 and F2 may be stored in a quantity of up to 10 kg NEM.
- Buildings without living space: In a building without living space, such as an insulated garage, fireworks of categories F1 and F2 up to a NEM of 15 kg can be stored safely.
To illustrate: A firework battery can have a total weight of 1 kg, while the net explosive mass (the actual pyrotechnic substance) in it can be 350 g.
Moisture can cause fireworks to malfunction and excessive temperatures can cause unwanted discharges, so it is important to store fireworks in a cool, dry place. Avoid placing fireworks near radiators or heating pipes. Storage areas should be free of smoking, naked flames or lights. In addition, do not store hazardous materials nearby that could increase the risk, such as aerosol cans. Safety is the key to enjoying fireworks without risk.
Old fireworks from years gone by
Is it still safe to use?
To avoid potential accidents, if you have fireworks left over from previous years, do not use them.
Fireworks that have been in storage for a long period of time may have a loss of function or a slower reaction due to moisture absorption over time. In such cases, it is extremely important not to attempt to reignite the fireworks, as they may react unexpectedly. Even fireworks that have been stored in excessively dry conditions may, within acceptable limits, have a slight effect on their performance in the form of a slightly faster or slower reaction. It is for this reason that the instructions for use and the safety measures should always be followed.
It is advisable to make sure that the fireworks you use are in the best possible condition and that they comply with the safety standards in force. The New Year should be celebrated with joy and enthusiasm, but always remember to keep yourself and those around you safe.
Safe disposal
Fireworks contain substances that are sensitive to impact, friction and heat. When handling inoperable or incomplete fireworks, it is important to exercise extreme caution. Below are some recommendations for the disposal of small quantities of category F1 and F2 fireworks. Please note that local disposal regulations may apply.
If you have leftover CE-marked fireworks, such as empty tube batteries or fully functioning rockets, you can safely dispose of them in your normal household waste bin once they have cooled sufficiently (e.g. overnight).
On the other hand, fireworks with a CE marking that do not work or that have not worked all the way still contain explosive substances. For safety reasons, these fireworks should never be used again. Instead, after they have cooled down sufficiently, you should take them to a recycling or recovery center with special treatment for hazardous waste. This will help to ensure that these materials are disposed of in a safe and environmentally sound manner.
When my New Year’s Eve dream as an 18-year-old went up in smoke
Many years ago, I looked forward to my first New Year’s Eve as an adult, when I had just turned 18. There was a lot of anticipation, and I could hardly wait to welcome in the new year with a breathtaking display of fireworks. But that special night turned out to be a huge disappointment.
My friends and I gathered in a meadow near our house on New Year’s Eve. We still had some old fireworks from the previous year stored in our shed. It was a jackpot for us back then because we were able to save a lot of money.
The countdown to midnight began and the atmosphere was at its peak. But when we lit the first fireworks, the disappointment was immediate. The rocket exploded with a faint spark and a loud bang right above us, instead of rising majestically into the sky.
What followed was a series of mishaps and misfires. The rockets flew uncontrollably in different directions. Some exploded on the ground, others didn’t go off at all. Our celebratory mood was shattered by the disappointing bangs and the clouds of smoke that enveloped us.
That night, I didn’t feel like an 18-year-old adult living life to the fullest. I felt more like a disappointed boy whose New Year’s Eve dream had been taken away from him. The sense of disappointment that we all felt was palpable, and the anticipation of the new year was gone.
The joy and safety of fireworks
New Year’s Eve should be a time of joy and wonder. There is no doubt that the mesmerizing lights in the sky are a visual treat. But we must never forget that safety should always come first. In Germany, we can enjoy the fireworks in all their splendor and safety by following the legal regulations.
The beauty and fascination of the New Year’s Eve fireworks display goes hand in hand with the responsibility and caution that we all need to exercise. By knowing and being aware, we can help make sure that everyone enjoys a memorable New Year’s Eve.
See you next time,
stay safe, stay informed
Remember to follow the rules and celebrate the New Year safely!
Your TEAM from Instructo Consulting
