The attraction to using fireworks is obvious as it does make for a good show at any private party or event. It is for this reason that certain categories of fireworks are made available to the public. Indoor, outdoor, daytime and nighttime fireworks are available to purchase in the UK with the restriction that they cannot be sold to people under the age of 18 and are not to be set off within the hours of 11pm and 7am for the reason of public nuisance. Consumer fireworks are relatively easy to set up and ignite using lighters, matches or ‘punks’ (a tool that burns slowly much like a stick of incense and is considered the safest option for ignition). Often a ‘rack’ will be used to allow several fireworks to be ignited at the same time to create a small display.

The hazard with consumer fireworks is the risk of harm by burns and wounds, not just to the person who is igniting them but also to the spectators who may not be aware of the distance needed to stay safe. It is a frequent occurrence for the British media to alert the public on the dangers of improper firework use and irresponsibility when dealing with these explosives during the week before Guy Fawkes celebrated on the 5th of November every year. It is for this exact reason that categories were introduced and implemented in order to reduce the chance of harm coming to individuals wanting to enjoy a private fireworks display.