Whether you head out to your local ballpark or amusement park to catch a professional show, or gather with friends and family in the backyard, fireworks are probably an important part of your life. For generations, humans have celebrated holidays and important events with fireworks displays. Yet many people do not actually know that much about them. Here are 7 little known fun facts about fireworks.

Fun Facts About Fireworks - Dynamite Fireworks
1. Fireworks Led to the Invention of Rockets

A common misconception is that military rockets led to the invention of celebratory fireworks. However, the truth is actually the opposite. Fireworks were discovered accidentally around 200 BC, when some unknown Chinese person first threw green bamboo into a fire. Pockets of superheated air inside the bamboo caused it to crackle and explode.

Black powder and firecrackers came along in the 9th century AD as a byproduct of Chinese alchemists’ attempts to create a potion of immortality. It wasn’t until around 1200 AD that huo yao, the fire drug, was perfected and used to build the first rocket.

2. The First Fireworks Were for Safety, Not Celebrations

Although they were not used in any official military capacity, the earliest fireworks were used to ensure safety. It was believed that the loud sounds from crackling and exploding bamboo would ward off evil spirits. Over time, the practice of burning bamboo expanded to the Chinese New Year, and then to weddings, births, and other important events.

3. Fireworks Are Just Visual Chemistry

Fireworks may be visually stunning, but at their heart, they are nothing more than basic chemistry. A fireworks shell contains several small, doughy pellets called pyrotechnic stars. Each pyrotechnic star contains a mixture of oxidizers, reducing agents, a fuel source, and color-producing metals or metal salts. When the fuse is lit, it sparks a complex chemical reaction that results in the desired effect.

4. Fireworks Were Banned in Many States

Although the first American Independence Day fireworks celebration took place in Philadelphia in 1777, fireworks were not yet common across the new nation. In fact, many states and cities banned them altogether due to concerns about fire. Over the years, though, both commercial and home fireworks displays became nearly ubiquitous as governments responded to the public’s fascination.

5. Most Animals Hate Fireworks

Fireworks might be fun for you, but your pet likely has an entirely different opinion. Dogs and cats tend to whimper and hide. Birds become disoriented and can fly off course. Pet owners are urged to keep their animals indoors, preferably in a sound-proof locale, on major fireworks holidays such as New Year’s Eve and the Fourth of July. Of course, not all humans enjoy fireworks either. Phobias and PTSD (posttraumatic stress disorder) can make some people feel like joining their dog under the bed!

6. Eco-friendly Fireworks Are in Development

Traditional fireworks are relatively bad for the environment, as they contain heavy metals, perchlorates, dioxins, and other pollutants. However, researchers are hard at work creating new designs that are just as colorful but eco-friendlier. It turns out that nitrogen compounds can replace perchlorates, while harmless sodium and potassium periodate are useful oxidizers. The work continues, and cost effective, environmentally friendly fireworks are on their way.

7. Safe Fireworks Handling Is Crucial

Fireworks are responsible for more 11,000 injuries and 50,000 fires in the United States each year. Most of these are easily preventable with a few basic safe handling guidelines. Designate a safety range, ensure that the person lighting the fireworks is sober and no younger than mid-teens, and never point fireworks at anyone or anything. Carefully soak spent fireworks and sparklers before disposing of them, and closely monitor young children who are using sparklers. If anyone is injured, seek medical attention right away.

Fireworks are a major part of many people’s holiday celebrations, but there is a great deal that the average person does not know. During your next fireworks show, spare a moment to think about the incredible feats of chemistry and engineering that led to today’s fireworks designs.

At Dynamite Fireworks, we don’t only sell top-quality, name-brand fireworks. We also provide the information you need to know to use them responsibly, legally, and safely. If you have any questions or concerns, give us a call at (219) 937-4090. We look forward to becoming your one-stop shop for all your fireworks needs!