To have a successful firework launch, your rockets, mortars, smoke grenades and more need to be protected from the elements. Seeing as submerging fireworks in water is the best and safest way to ensure they no longer work and can be disposed of, the opposite is true to have working fireworks. So, are fireworks designed to be waterproof to be used in all weathers, are do you need to avoid wet weather at all costs? We look at whether fireworks for sale in the UK are waterproof and what you can do to avoid a washed-out display.
Prepare for the weather
Firstly, most firework designs mean they are not built to withstand water and still work. That’s why if you are storing fireworks, they need to be kept somewhere as dry as possible away from humidity and any leaks. Many fireworks you can buy are made from a paper or cardboard tube, whilst others may launch from plastic tubing. Of course, if the shell of the firework is exposed to water for a period, it may stop working, hence why submerging in a bucket of water for 15 minutes will usually be enough to stop a firework from working again.
In rain conditions, it’s usually the fuse that is most susceptible to failure as it needs to successfully light, just like a cigarette for example. It’s not impossible to launch fireworks in the rain, but it’s not always the best idea for a successful display. You can protect fireworks before launch if there is light drizzle by covering them with plastic or cling film, shielding them from the rain. You would then just remove this before lighting the fuse and this should work as normal. Like any outdoor event, if the rain becomes heavy or storm-like, you’d probably want to postpone anyway until there are better conditions.
Should I Launch Fireworks in Bad Weather?
Not only will heavy rain make an outdoor event less enjoyable for spectators and possibly spoil your fireworks from working, it can be extremely hazardous. Heavy rainfall, as well as windy conditions, will affect how the firework launches and the direction it travels. The last thing you want is for launched fireworks to suddenly change direction, possibly heading towards crowds, so therefore avoiding bad weather for your display is best. Dryer, more calm conditions are always preferable for maximum effect and can ensure your display is not washed out. Even if you have a display of ground fireworks such as fountains or Catherine Wheels, this will be affected by exposure to the rain in the time between setting up and launch.
If unexpected rainfall happens as you begin your display or during, don’t worry too much as most will still work and launch successfully. If this then turns into stormy conditions or torrential rain, it’s probably best to postpone. Always prepare for wet weather and check the forecasts leading up to your display date. This way you can plan ahead and choose better conditions, especially if you are planning fireworks during wetter seasons of the year. If you are keeping fireworks stored for use, make sure they are waterproofed, avoiding any moisture build-up, rather than leaving open to humidity or accidental exposure. If you are ever in doubt about the best way to waterproof your fireworks, seek out local experts who can help provide advice and tips.
