Industry Group Issues Recommendations Bethesda, Maryland (March 10, 2003) - In response to
questions about the safe use of indoor pyrotechnics following the Rhode Island nightclub fire
on February 20, the American Pyrotechnics Association (APA) today issued the following safety
recommendations to meeting planners, banquet facilities, hotels, theaters, stadiums, convention
centers and conference sites that use indoor "proximate" pyrotechnics to enhance their events:
Only use a professional pyrotechnic company or certified pyrotechnic operator.
Require and verify references from the pyrotechnic company or certified operator.
Request that NFPA Standard 1126, Standard for the Use of Pyrotechnics before a Proximate.
Audience, be strictly adhered to, especially if your state or local jurisdiction has no detailed
legal requirements for indoor pyrotechnics.
Understand what pyrotechnic effects will be used and make certain that the local fire marshal has
approved the plan and issued the necessary permit.
Prohibit any pyrotechnic supplies or devices on-site that have not been approved for use at the event.
Ensure all venue staff are advised of the intended use of indoor pyrotechnics in the facility and
designate appropriately trained staff to be responsible for executing the facility's emergency
response and evacuation
Insist that personnel have appropriate fire extinguishing equipment on hand to extinguish any
accidental fire involving flammable or combustible materials.
Request a certificate of liability insurance coverage from the pyrotechnic company or certified
pyrotechnic operator.
Insist that the venue be named as an additional insured for the duration of the event.
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The APA emphasized that indoor pyrotechnics are not appropriate for use in venues with flammable
or combustible interior surfaces or furnishings and may not be appropriate in certain facilities
that do not have sprinklers. All staging areas, including draperies and carpet, must be flame retardant.
"By adhering to these common sense, practical safety tips, and employing the services of a licensed
professional pyrotechnics company or certified pyrotechnics operator, indoor pyrotechnics can be an
exciting and safe entertainment medium," said Julie L. Heckman, Executive Director of the APA.
Heckman noted that for more than 30 years, indoor pyrotechnics have been enjoyed by millions
spectators and have enhanced theatrical productions, rock concerts, sporting events, ice shows
and political conventions.
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For more information contact: Party Sparks Inc at 305-594-4431
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