Fireworks are easy to find, with big tents, warehouse outlets, and other retail fireworks stores lining major roads in towns across the country, especially around the Fourth of July. But fireworks are large, potentially dangerous, explosive devices. It is important to know exactly what you are getting, how to use it safely, and whether it is of the highest quality. If you are new to fireworks, you might also need help with choosing the right products for the display you envision. A good fireworks supplier has an extensive knowledge of the fireworks industry, local laws and ordinances, and the products that he or she sells. Here are 6 considerations for choosing a reputable supplier and the best fireworks stores.
Experience
How long has the supplier been in business? Does the supplier carry multiple name brands and a variety of items from every major fireworks category? How large is their customer base and is it expanding? Is the store seasonal or is the supplier available year round? Do they offer both Retail and Wholesale options? Does the supplier carry the specialty, unique, or “hard to find” items that truly showcase their knowledge, networking, resources, and history in the fireworks industry? Is their experience mostly in small home displays, major commercial shows, or something else? Look for a company that has a broad history of experiences, actively seeks out new opportunities and products, carries top brands and unique specialty items, offers both retail and wholesale purchase options, is available year round, and sells a high volume of products each year to an expanding customer base. Another way to gauge experience and industry knowledge is to check the supplier’s website to find initial answers to the questions above and to gauge, for yourself, their fireworks knowledge, acumen, and authority in the industry.
Reputation
What do previous customers think of the supplier? Is there a steady repeat clientele? What kinds of fireworks shows do customers generally mount, and how much experience do the regulars have with fireworks? You can learn about a company in a variety of ways. Look for online reviews. Check for their participation in industry organizations such as Pyrotechnics Guild International or the National Fireworks Association. Check if their website clearly showcases and enhances their brand. See if the company has testimonials posted on its website. Check for any Better Business Bureau accreditations and ratings. Check for news articles or stories about your potential supplier. Talk to other customers either online or in person, and ask why they chose that particular supplier.
Product Quality
Not all fireworks are of the same quality. Poorly made fireworks have a much higher risk of premature detonation, such as in a hot car trunk, and of something going wrong during detonation. High quality, name brand fireworks are carefully tested to minimize these risks and ensure safe storage and detonation. In fact, you can store high quality fireworks for as many as 10 years under proper conditions. Make sure that your supplier only sells trusted name brands with a solid reputation for quality, and be sure the supplier does enough volume that they are replenishing their own inventory on a frequent basis with fresh product.
Of course, you should quickly walk away from any supplier who stocks illegal fireworks such as M-80s or Cherry Bombs, as well as anyone who is willing to sell professional fireworks to an unlicensed consumer. Professional grade fireworks are classified and marked as 1.3G, while consumer grade fireworks are 1.4G. Always read the labels on any fireworks you are considering.
Product Knowledge
A good fireworks supplier has a deep understanding of how different kinds of fireworks work, and stocks a wide range of both common and unique specialty fireworks. If the supplier is local to you, make at least one trip to the showroom instead of ordering exclusively online. Look around the store, noting how it is organized and what types of products are available. Talk to a salesperson. Ask for recommendations, find out what novelty fireworks are currently in stock, and discuss different products in detail.
Many fireworks suppliers run product videos in their stores or on their websites that demonstrate new or novelty products. Watch the videos, and ask the supplier for clarification on anything that is not well explained.
Legal Knowledge
Every state, county, and city has its own unique fireworks laws. Your local fireworks supplier should be extremely knowledgeable about these laws and how they apply to the products that the company sells. A reputable supplier will ask where you plan to launch the fireworks and provide important information about any special ordinances that might apply. If you are ordering online from another state, your supplier might not have detailed information about the laws that apply in your area, but he or she should be able to address common concerns and give you suggestions on where to find the information you need.
Safety Concerns
Reputable fireworks suppliers want to keep their customers safe and healthy. If you are purchasing larger items like mortars, sky rockets, or other hazardous products, a reputable supplier will offer or sell safety devices, such as launching tubes or wick extensions for example, and be proactive in giving tips and suggestions on handling fireworks safely. If you mention that children or pets will be present at your display, a good supplier will suggest ways to protect them while allowing them to be part of the fun.
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!