The Fourth of July is rapidly approaching and fireworks stands are popping up everywhere.
David Rosenbaum of Lewisville, president of North Texas Pyrotechnic Productions, and his father, Steve Rosenbaum, company vice president, want to help make sure that people enjoy fireworks safely during the holiday season.
The best way, of course, is to hire professionals to put on a fireworks show for you. But that may prove too costly for many, even though North Texas Pyrotechnic offers less expensive shows than those who produce the larger shows like at Vista Ridge Mall each year.
Both David and Steve said they want to remind those who want to shoot off their own fireworks for July Fourth to do so both legally and safely.
“It’s important that people follow the law,” Steve said. Most cities ban fireworks within the city limits and some even within up to 2,000 feet of the city limits.
People who use fireworks should do so well outside the city limits and not on any highway rights-of-way. Fireworks should not be used near buildings or in tall grass. “People should get permission from any property owner before shooting fireworks on their property,” David said.
The Roman candle is one of the most dangerous pieces of fireworks because it is often used improperly, Steve said.
“Most of the Roman candles state ‘do not hold in hand, but a lot of people do anyway,” he said. “If you do hold it in your hand, hold it at your side. Roman candles have been known to backfire and they can seriously injure someone. Also, never point a Roman candle at anyone.”
The top portion of a Roman candle can be extremely hot and people’s hands can be burned by holding the candle in the wrong place, Steve said.
The Rosenbaums also offered some other fireworks safety tips:
Always read and follow directions; have an adult present; use outdoors only; always have water handy; never experiment or make your own fireworks; light only one firework at a time; never re-light a dud firework (wait 15 to 20 minutes and then soak it in water); never give fireworks to children; If necessary, store fireworks in a cool, dry place; never throw or point fireworks at other people; never carry fireworks in your pocket; never shoot fireworks in metal or glass containers; wear eye protection and never have any part of the body over the firework; and stay away from illegal explosives.
In addition to providing advice on how to enjoy fireworks legally and safely, the Rosenbaums also had some advice on how to get the most bang for your buck.
“Don’t fall for these offers of ‘Buy one, get 12 free,’” they both advised. “They simply run up the price.”
“Also, be sure you are buying from a reputable dealer,” David said.
North Texas Pyrotechnic Productions advertises “Custom fireworks for all special occasions.”
Recently a groom in Frisco wanted to surprise his bride with a fireworks show at the conclusion of the wedding ceremony. She saw someone setting up from a van at the Stonebriar Country Club, but thought they were bringing in plants or something for the wedding.
The groom thought North Texas Pyrotechnic did a bang-up job and everyone, including the bride, got a bang out of it.
The groom shelled out $800 for that brief but elaborate fireworks display. The Rosenbaums offer fireworks shows for up to about $4,000.
North Texas Pyrotechnic Productions will be doing two shows each Friday night for nine weeks, beginning July 6, at the Gaylord Texan in Grapevine. They also have other appointments scheduled.
North Texas Pyrotechnic Productions does not sell fireworks to individuals. The company purchases most of their fireworks from Nelson’s Fireworks, which has numerous stores and stands in the area, and recommend them to the public. Go to www.nelsonfireworks.com for more information.
To schedule North Texas Pyrotechnic Productions for any event, call 214-674-1465, e-mail info@NorthTexasPyro.com. For more information, go to www.NorthTexasPyro.com.
Article from The Lewisville Leader, written by Dan Eakin, Staff Writer.
