Fireworks - the List

Fireworks are always a crowd favorite whether it be at a sports game or a holiday like July fourth. The big boom when the large ones go up in the air to the crackle as they disintegrate and go to the ground is always fascinating. But what kinds of fireworks are there and what are they called?

Fireworks come in all shapes, sizes and sounds. Depending where you live or where you are should determine what type of fireworks to use for your celebration. Some states don't allow fireworks, so check here to make sure: Fireworks Laws State by State.


Rockets

"Ignited" gunpowder sends this rocket into the air, like a real one taking off. Different shapes and things, like starts or parachutes explode out and there is another fuse that when lit can make other special effects when in the air.

Smokebombs

This is a small, firework that does not go in the air or produce anything but smoke. It can be placed on the ground or thrown. Why use it? The smoke that comes out is colorful.

Snakes

This one is called a snake because it looks like a snake when it's lit. Once lit, the chemicals that are inside expand and create a snake like presence.

Sparklers

Most of us have heard of these and used these. They are usually the one firework that is legal in many places. Even though you can hold these and light them in your hand, they can also be very dangerous because people think that they are not. A sparkler is usually on a long wire with chemicals at one end that you light.

Roman Candles

The Roman Candle contains gunpowder packed in a tube along with "stars" (which are the chemicals) that will shoot out when lit. Due to its layers of gunpowder and chemicals, the Roman Candle shoots repeatedly.

Fountains

This firework sits on the ground and shoots "stars" up in the air so they look like a fountain. Fire sparkles from underneath when these are lit and the top is opened up.

Firecrackers

Invented by the Chinese, (to ward off evil spirits) these are one of the oldest forms of fireworks. They can come in strings or rolls and are used by many families and people at home, if legal, for July fourth.

Helicopters (or Flying Spinners)

Wings on this device guide the spinner as it floats - like a helicopter. There are ground spinners too (that spin really fast spewing colors). At the end of the flight of the helicopter, colored "stars" shoot out.

Poppers and Snaps

Great for families with kids. These fireworks are sold all year round, and really not considered fireworks, although a lot of places sell them with fireworks since they are fun, safe and easy to use. Pull the string, it pops and confetti comes out.

Wheels

These fireworks spin quickly, like a wheel, and are usually hung up or supported by something. Sparks fly out and the faster it goes, the more it looks like "blazing fire" floating in the air.

FOR MORE INFORMATION:

Fireworks Laws State by State
Fireworks
PyroUniverse.com