Toolbox
- Client Toolbox™
- Fireworks History
- Fireworks Storage
- Selling Fireworks
- Glossary
- Chemistry & Effects
- F.A.Q.
- Fireworks Safety
- Links & Docs
Client Toolbox™
All Mission Control Specialists at BLAST-OFF Fireworks have been specifically trained in family fireworks. With a wide range of experience and knowledge, BLAST-OFF Fireworks aims to assist you and your employees in learning about fireworks to better serve your retail customers and launch your retail profits.
The Client Toolbox™ section of our website features a wealth of family fireworks related information and great point of sale tools for retailers of any size.
Client Tools include:
- Fireworks History
- Tips for safe storage of family fireworks
- Sales pointers to Launch Your Profits
- Product and effect description listings
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Fireworks safety information
- Creative promotional templates
- Printable marketing materials
- Downloadable documents and posters
If you have any further questions, please use our online contact form to submit your query to BLAST-OFF Fireworks.
The History of Fireworks
It is believed by historians that the precursor to fireworks, black powder, originated in China some 2,000 years ago. Legend tells of a Chinese cook who accidentally spilled saltpeter (a flavoring agent) into a cooking fire, producing an interesting flame. After witnessing the interesting flame, the cook decided to mix charcoal, sulphur and saltpeter. To the cook’s surprise, the mixture burned rapidly, with unprecedented heat and force.
While numerous experiments with black powder occurred over the next thousand years, a Chinese monk named Li Tian is credited with the development of the firecracker, the forerunner of today’s modern fireworks products. Tian, a native of Liu Yang in the Hunan Province, reportedly created the first firecrackers by filling bamboo shoots with black powder. When ignited at new years festivities, these explosive bamboo shoots created loud bangs. These noises were thought to have the power to fend off evil spirits and ghosts.
Generally, Marco Polo is credited with bringing Chinese black powder back to Europe in the 13th century. Once in Europe, black powder was initially used for military purposes, namely in the development of rockets, canons, and guns. With their emphasis on arts and entertainment, the Italians were the first Europeans who used black powder to manufacture fireworks.
In the modern era, China continues to be a driving force in the global fireworks market. The Chinese province of Hunan, Li Tian’s home, remains the global fireworks capital. While nearly all of the fireworks available for sale in Canada originate in China, these articles are subject to intense scrutiny by Canada’s Explosives Regulatory Division prior to importation.
Family fireworks continue to be the most prevalent source of industry growth, with annual consumption increasing between 5% and 10%. New family fireworks products are being developed in large volumes, and the scope and variety of products will undoubtedly continue to increase over the foreseeable future.
Fireworks Storage
Protocols pertaining to the safe storage of Family Fireworks in Canada are administered by the Explosives Regulatory Division. Over the past number of years, the Explosives Regulatory Division has refined standards pertaining to family fireworks storage, and has recently released Bulletin 51, a plain-language explanation of regulatory requirements.
A summary of the do’s and dont’s contained within Bulletin 51 is as follows:
RECOMMENDED
- Consult with your local municipality or fire prevention office to verify municipal storage requirements prior to merchandising fireworks.
- Ensure that fireworks are displayed in a manner which prevents public access to loose product. Family packs, blister packs, or shrink wrapped items, however, may be merchandised without restricting public access.
- Loose fireworks items must be stored in such a way as to prevent fire from spreading rapidly from one lot to the next.
- Good areas for displaying loose fireworks products include:
- Shelving areas behind your retail checkout.
- In a locked display cabinet.
- On a high product display shelf in your retail store.
- In a BLAST-OFF Fireworks Loan-A-Cabinet™ display unit.
- Post a "NO SMOKING" sign near the display area.
- Ensure that your retail outlet satisfies Workplace Health and Safety regulations pertaining to unobstructed emergency exits.
- Install a suitable ABC fire extinguisher in your retail setting.
- Verify that the purchasers of fireworks are 18 years of age of older.
NOT RECOMMENDED
- Merchandising illegal or unapproved fireworks articles.
- Storing in excess of 1000 kg of consumer fireworks at your retail outlet.
- Storing fireworks in retail lots greater than 25 kg.
- Storing fireworks with other dangerous goods like paint, propane cylinders, or cooking oil.
- Displaying fireworks in areas of direct sunlight or direct heat.
- Permitting minors to purchase or handle retail fireworks.
Click here to view Bulletin 51.
As an economical solution to retail storage issues identified in Bulletin 51, retailers are encouraged to consider the BLAST-OFF Fireworks Loan-A-Cabinet™ Fixture Leasing Program.
Click here for more information.
Have you already purchased a BLAST-OFF Fireworks Loan-A-Cabinet™ Display Fixture? Click here for printable assembly instructions.
Selling Fireworks
Did you know... Your customers are bombarded by over 3,000 advertising messages a day! How can you make your store stand out through the clutter? How can you successfully increase retail sales while keeping your marketing budget under control?
At BLAST-OFF Fireworks, we have compiled four tips for Launching Your Profits™. Remember, if you need assistance with any aspect of your fireworks program, Mission Control is a quick phone call away!
PROFIT TIP 1 - DO IT RIGHT!
The amount of attention you devote to a particular category at your retail outlet will ultimately determine the success of the product line.
At the very basic level, you should view your fireworks category from the customer's perspective. Ask yourself if your fireworks display is truly customer friendly... would you purchase fireworks from your store, given the way you are promoting or displaying your merchandise?
At a more advanced level, consider your product mix. Do you have the "right amount" of inventory? A $200 selection of fireworks in your store is not likely to yield the results that you desire, as avid fireworks customers could cause a stock-out with a single purchase!
Furthermore, do you have the "right type" of inventory? If you merchandise only pre-packaged kits at your outlet, are you neglecting an un-tapped market? What happens when your customers start to look for a specific item type that is contained within the family packs?
PROFIT TIP 2 - LEND A HAND
If you notice a fireworks customer struggling with their purchase, this might be the perfect opportunity for you to help out!
Frequently, customers may not be able to make a firm decision on a specific product, or group of products. The primary alternative is to recommend a pre-packaged assortment that meets their budget and needs. These assortments contain a variety of items, usually focusing on the most popular, top-selling products.
If a customer is not interested in a pre-packaged assortment, or if your store does not carry these items, direct the customer to your loose fireworks selection. While working to establish their expectations and requirements, attempt to understand what your customer is looking for. Specifically:
- Ask the customer if they are looking for any specific item type or configuration. For example, a customer may be looking specifically for Roman Candles or Cakes.
- Ask the customer if they are looking for a specific colour or effect.
After discussing the customer's desires, develop a mutual game plan. Begin by pointing out items that might be of interest, explaining as you go. Remember, it never hurts to describe your favorite items. If in doubt, remember that each product is labeled with the colour, effect, and number of shots produced upon ignition. When a customer cannot decide what item to purchase, and you have run of out of items to recommend, just remember CATS:
Quite simply, cakes provide the best bang for the consumer dollar!
If, at any point in speaking with your customer, you feel as though you are unable to answer customer questions, do not hesitate to contact Mission Control at 1-866-827-4765! One of our Fireworks Specialists can assist with the development of a package to suit your customer's needs!
PROFIT TIP 3 - BECOME A SPECIALIST
Are you known as the "Fireworks Specialist" in your community? Wouldn't this be a great (and inexpensive) marketing opportunity for your store? Imagine the trust and loyalty you could earn!
Believe it or not, becoming a specialist doesn't have to mean heading back to the classroom for two years of lectures. For some, becoming a fireworks specialist can be as minimal as memorizing the product descriptions and effect types listed in the "Product Glossary" and "Product Effects" tabs above.
Looking for the extra edge? From P.O.S. decals and posters, to fireworks signage and pre-designed newspaper advertisements, BLAST-OFF Fireworks has all of your promotional needs covered! Click the "Marketing Support" tab above to download free, customizable newspaper advertisements to promote your fireworks program.
PROFIT TIP 4 - FIRE IT UP!
How can you take the concept of creative thinking, and apply it to your fireworks program? Consider these three ideas that can form a starting point for adding excitement to your fireworks offering:
- Purchase Freebies - Why not create an incentive program that rewards people based on the volume of fireworks purchased?
- Buy 2 Get 1 Free Specials - Loss leaders drive traffic to your store, create new (and lasting) relationships, and increase basket size.
- Community Sponsorships - Why not sponsor or spear-head an annual community fireworks display? Plus, if your customers like what they see in the sky, they'll know EXACTLY where to buy the exact same product! Just remember to put the "Open" sign on after your community display!
As you can see, the key to success with your fireworks program is differentiation and creativity! As a successful retailer, you must exceed customer expectations, surpass the competition, reward your best repeat customers.. and most importantly, have fun in the process!
Glossary
We know learning the intricacies of every product you sell can be difficult! To help you in the sale of your fireworks, we have crafted this simple glossary of items and terms frequently used to describe fireworks products.
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Roman Candles
Small or medium diameter tube-typed items. Roman Candles emit multiple shots of individual flaming stars.
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Barrages
Multiple Roman Candles combined into a single unit. Barrages allow for a large number of shots and various effects.
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Brazilian Tubes
Medium and large diameter tube items containing a mixed bag of effects, including floral bursts, whistles, and loud bangs.
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Sound Shells
Single shot items that produce a variety of aerial screeches and comets, ending with a very loud bang.
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Fountains
Low-level items that emit showers of sparks, similar to a volcano. Some fountains include whistles, crackers, and color changing effects.
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Cakes
Multiple tube items designed as rapid-firing finale pieces. Cakes emit a broad range of effects, all with dazzling power and altitude.
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Angled Cakes
Cakes constructed with angled tubs, providing a wider firing pattern. These items are great for an exciting wide-angled finale sequence.
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Mines
Medium and large diameter tube items held vertical with plastic bases. Produce a burst of illuminated stars, lifting upwards in a fan shape.
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Floral Shells
Medium and large diameter tube items help vertical with plastic bases. Contain various bursting effects with maximum altitude.
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Wheels
Numerous fountains mounted on a centrally pivoting wheel. Wheels spin freely, creating large circular sprays of sparks and effects.
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Novelties Traditional low-level and ground-based items designed for amusement. Include spinners, strobes, and burning buildings. |
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Sparklers
The only fireworks products designed to be held. When lit, sparklers produce glittering sparks, safe enough to be held in the hand.
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Firing Systems
Ignition aids, designed to facilitate safe and effective ignition of consumer fireworks items. Includes both manual and electronic systems.
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Fireworks Effects
Today’s fireworks can range from single-shot effects, to complex combinations of multiple burst, trail, and glitter effects. The section below outlines some of the most common burst and effect patterns found in Canadian fireworks.
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Chrysanthemum - A perfectly shaped spherical burst of tailed stars, very much like a flower. Chrysanthemum bursts are usually found in large floral shells and cakes. |
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Comet - A large flaming projectile which produces a bushy, shimmering tail as it rises. Many roman candles and floral shells exhibit comet tail effects. |
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Crossette - A set of comets that split into diverging trails as they cascade and fill the sky. Crossettes are a rare effect, usually found in large floral shells. |
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Flying Fish - Stars which wiggle and swim away from a central burst in a silent mesmeric dance. Look for flying fish in your favorite cakes and floral shells. |
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Glitter - A constant spray of shimmering and twinkling sparks. Fountains are best known for their beautiful glitter effects. |
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Willow / Palm - Bright arms of cascading sparks, shaped to permeate outward like the branches of a palm tree. Palm bursts are found in floral shells and cakes. |
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Pearls - A set of bright glowing orbs that do not leave a trail as they rise in the sky. Pearls are frequently found in roman candles, barrages, and cakes. |
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Peony - A perfectly expanding sphere of stars. Peony bursts are usually found in large floral shells, brazilian tubes and cakes. |
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Spinner - An aerial effect that is created by a whirling projectile. Spinners may produce a screeching effect. Look for spinners in barrages and cakes. |
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Stars - Glowing, flaming ball of coloured or crackling light accompanied by narrow tracer trails. Stars are found in roman candles and barrages. |
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Strobe - A brightly flickering or flashing light in the sky or on the ground. Strobe effects may be found in novelties, cakes, and large floral shells. |
Frequently Asked Questions
In response to the numerous questions submit by retail partners, BLAST-OFF Fireworks has developed a listing of Frequently Asked Questions. Whether you are a beginner, novice, or self-proclaimed fireworks expert, you will surely find this information to be useful!
Q: HOW DO I KNOW WHAT A PARTICULAR PRODUCT DOES?
A: There are three ways to determine how a particular item will perform when ignited. First, check the product packaging for a description of the item's performance. Second, visit our website at blastofffireworks.ca to view product pictures, descriptions, and videos. Finally, consult an InfoDOC™ brochure for product definitions and effect listings.
Q: ARE FAMILY FIREWORKS ILLEGAL OR DANGEROUS?
A: All fireworks sold in your location have been tested by the Government of Canada, and are approved for retail sale to the public.
Q: HOW SHOULD I LIGHT MY FIREWORKS?
A: When lighting fireworks, safety should be your first priority! Prepare your ignition area prior to your display, and appoint one-to-four assistants. Punk igniters, barbeque lighters, or road flares work best for igniting your display.
Q: HOW DO I LIGHT MULTIPLE ITEMS AT ONE TIME?
A: Unless you are a licensed pyrotechnician, it is recommended that you ignite each firework individually. To achieve multiple effects, appoint an assistant to aid in simultaneous ignition. In this case, it is best to use items of equal size which will create one spectacular focal point.
Q: HOW DO I TRANSPORT FIREWORKS?
A: It is safe to transport up to 25 kg of family fireworks in a passenger vehicle. As a precaution, keep purchased fireworks out of direct sunlight (in the trunk or under the seat). Storing fireworks in a plastic shopping bag from a retail location is acceptable for transporting fireworks in your vehicle.
Q: HOW LONG WILL FIREWORKS KEEP?
A: Provided they are stored in a cool, dry location, fireworks have a very long shelf-life (5-7 years). Do not store fireworks in a sealed plastic container, as plastic prevents the circulation of air, and may cause condensation.
Q: DO I NEED A LICENSE TO SHOOT FIREWORKS?
A: All products sold at Canadian retail locations have been approved for sale to consumers in Canada, and do not require additional licenses for purchase or possession. In order to purchase and use Class 7.2.1 (consumer) fireworks in Canada, one must:
- Be 18 years of age or order.
- Follow all instructions for safe use and clean-up.
- Properly plan and coordinate display activities.
Note: Local municipalities may enact rules and regulations restricting the time, duration, or location of fireworks displays. For example, in the City of Winnipeg, The Winnipeg Fire and Paramedic Services requires consumers to apply for a free fireworks ignition permit prior to igniting a consumer fireworks display. For further details regarding the municipal bylaws in your area, contact your local civic office.
Q: WHAT MAKES A GOOD FIREWORKS SHOW?
A: Regardless of your budget, variety is key. A good display contains a wide assortment of effects, from fountains to high-flying aerial bursts. Multi-shot cakes or barrages should be reserved for the finale, creating an amazing finish. Whatever your budget, a good rule of thumb is to start small, grow to a crescendo, and finish HUGE!
Q: WILL CARRYING FIREWORKS AFFECT MY INSURANCE?
A: It’s always a good idea to check with your insurance representative to discuss the storage and sale of fireworks on your premise. In nearly all cases, consumer fireworks will not affect your insurance policy rates.
Q: DO I NEED A PERMIT TO SELL FIREWORKS AT MY STORE?
A: Local municipalities have the ability to enact rules and regulations restricting the time of year in which fireworks can be sold, the quantity of fireworks you can carry at your store, or ban the sale of fireworks in your area. For further details regarding the municipal bylaws or restrictions in your area, contact your local civic office.
Safety Tips
- Sparklers are the only items designed to be held in the hand.
- Do not smoke or allow open flames near fireworks.
- Do not shoot fireworks under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
- Choose a wide, clear site for firing, away from overhead obstacles and dry grass. Keep your audience at least 30 meters back from lighting area.
- Do not purchase illegal fireworks. These items do not meet the strict standards set out by Natural Resources Canada, and are therefore extremely hazardous and dangerous.
- Prior to use, store fireworks in a cool dry place. Use caution when positioning fireworks, preventing accidental product damage from dew and ground-level moisture.
- Read the instructions on each item. Different items have different firing instructions.
- Check wind direction and angle the fireworks away from spectators, about 10 degrees off-of-center. Do not shoot fireworks in high winds.
- Do not shoot fireworks out of glass or metal containers. These containers could crack or explode, sending shards of material outward.
- Never attempt to re-light a misfired fireworks item. Keep a bucket of water or hose handy to extinguish such items. If an item does not light easily, or fizzles out, do not approach the item for 20 minutes.
- The shooter and his/her assistants should wear snug fitting cotton clothing, and a cotton baseball hat for protection from sparks.
- Do not transport fireworks in your pockets.
- Keep pets indoors while shooting fireworks.
Click here to download a printable Safety Tips sheet
Downloads
As a valued client of BLAST-OFF Fireworks, feel free to make use of the following sales and informational aids:
Downloadable BLAST-OFF Forms and Posters
- Current BLAST-OFF Fireworks Price List - View
- Product Description Sheet - View
- Tips for Displaying Your Fireworks - View
- Client Account Information Form - View
- Safety Tips - View
- “SPECIAL” Fireworks Sign - View
- “NO SMOKING” Regulatory Sign - View
Downloadable Newspaper Ads
