If you are going to pop on Saturday during the turn of the year, then put on your rain suit right away because it promises to be a wet mess. The wind is also flying around you, so setting off fireworks safely can be a challenge. We ask a fireworks expert for advice, because how do you set off fireworks safely in such stormy weather?
It will be exceptionally warm this weekend: 15 degrees, Weerplaza reports. Last year’s heat record is 15.1 degrees on both days, so that can be broken just like that. Yet there is also wind and rain and those are exactly the ingredients that you cannot use when setting off fireworks. Frits Pen is a fireworks expert, he organizes large fireworks shows and knows how to do it safely.
Keep it dry!
Do not let fireworks get wet, only put them outside when you are about to light them. “If the firework goes out because of the rain, don’t try to light it again because it could be dangerous.” According to Pen, there is a chance that it will smolder inside and still go off in your hand. Submerging in water is the best way to disable the fireworks. “And definitely don’t leave it on the street, you don’t want kids playing with it the next day.”
Grab the space
“With the strong winds predicted, I advise people to stand on large plains. Find a place where you have a lot of space so that bystanders can really keep their distance.” The national government advises a distance of at least eight meters for bystanders in normal weather conditions. With strong wind that should be at least double.
Don’t let it blow away
Loose fireworks arrows have been banned since 2020 and the so-called compound fireworks (several fireworks pots in one, ed.) are often firmly on the ground. But fountains, for example, can blow in all directions. Secure the fireworks properly before lighting them. Also take into account the wind direction when you light the fireworks and pay attention to any trees in the area. You light fireworks with a lighter fuse.
Glasses for everyone
Whether it’s windy or not, always put on fireworks goggles. This applies to everyone, including bystanders. Once the fireworks take to the air, they come out at high speed. But as soon as it slows down in the air, the wind can get a hold of it. And even then the fireworks can go either way. Safety goggles are one must.
Alcohol and fireworks don’t mix
Well, fireworks and alcohol don’t mix. After all, you have to keep your head up. That is also what fireworks expert Pen says: “No alcohol, that goes without saying.” We’ll mention it anyway just to be sure.
Watch your clothes
Do not wear flammable clothing such as nylon, as it can catch fire with a small spark. Wear clothing that cannot catch fireworks (so no jacket with a hood, no wide boots). That also applies to the viewers.