Disclaimer:- This is by no means a definitive or complete guide to the use of pyrotechnics and it is not a subject I know a great deal about. This information is passed on in the hope that people will take note of what is written and either re-think their use of pyrotechnics or at least gain some formal training. Most training I have come across concentrates on stage use where you have much more control than in a LRP environment.

This is almost a verbatin copy of an article by Steve Miller published some years ago.

"The Firework Code" can be used as a general guide for the safe storage and use of pyrotechnics. Pyrotechnics should always be stored in a metal container and you should never return to a device which has failed to detonate.

All players and referees must be made aware that pyrotechnics are to be used on an adventures and the dangers arising from them. They must be shown the types of device to be used and be warned not to approach them. Referees must know exactly where pyrotechnic devices have been laid. They can then steer the party close enough for the best effect but can ensure that no-one is too close.

A minimum safety distance of 10 metres should always be adhered to once the device is ready to fire. Most stage pyrotechnics have a lesser safety distance than the stated 10 metres but the 10 metre rule should never be broken. If a device Is fired and it does not work, do not return to it immediately. A minimum "soak" time of 30 minutes should be left before approaching the device. If the fault can be found and put right before this time has passed, and without entering the danger area, then do so.

Whenever you intend to use pyrotechnics you should always take the following precautions:-

1. A trained First Aider (or at worst someone who knows how to treat injures from burns and foreign bodies) should be on hand to treat potential injuries.
2. You must carry a first aid kit and some clean cold water for treating burns.
3. A fire extinguisher must always be on hand; weight Is always a consideration, so I would recommend a small car fire extinguisher as a minimum requirement.

Some of you may be familiar with the concepts of electromagnetic radiation and induction which can often cause electrical pyrotechnic devices to fire prematurely because the connecting wires may act as an aerial. The best way to combat this is to keep connecting wires twisted together along the length of their insulation, which reduces the RF (Radio Frequency) Hazard. Common sources of electromagnetic radiation are: Electrical pylons, generators, unsuppressed vehicle ignitions, etc., which should be avoided when using electrical pyrotechnics.

On the topic of electrical devices use a proper firing pack. These packs allow a number of circuits to be connected up at once which means that several effects can be fired In quick succession. They also have a number of safety devices built Into them which ensure only the correct user is able to use the pack. The most normally used safety device Is an arming key which connects the power supply to the pack. A double switch system should be used where two switches have to be used to send a current to a device. These normally operate In different directions to prevent accidental firing. There is normally a switch for each circuit and a separate firing switch.