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Understanding the Categories: F2 vs. F3

In the UK, consumer fireworks are categorised based on their hazard level and intended use. This helps ensure public safety by matching the firework to the appropriate environment.

  • Category F2 Fireworks (Garden Fireworks): These are considered "low hazard" and "low noise," designed for outdoor use in confined areas like gardens. They require a minimum safety distance of at least 8 metres, though some manufacturers may specify up to 15 or 20 metres. F2 fireworks, whether individual items or fused combinations, have specific Net Explosive Content (NEC) limits:

    • Individual F2 Firework (e.g., single rocket, fountain, or cake): It varies dempending on the product. Multishot cakes for example are allowed a maximum 500g NEC per item.

    • F2 Compound Fireworks (multiple fireworks fused together on a board): Total NEC must not exceed 2000g.

  • Category F3 Fireworks (Display Fireworks): Stepping up in power, F3 fireworks are classified as "medium hazard" and are intended for outdoor use in large open areas. Their noise level is not harmful to human health, but they demand a greater safety distance – typically a minimum of 25 metres. F3 fireworks also have specific NEC limits:

    • Individual F3 Firework (e.g., single rocket, fountain, or cake): Again it varies dempending on the product. F3 Multishot cakes for example are allowed a maximum of 1000g NEC per item.

    • F3 Compound Cakes (multiple fireworks fused together): Total NEC can be up to 4000g.

Delving into Firework Types and Their Limits

Within F2 and F3 categories, you'll encounter various types of fireworks, each with its own characteristics and typical NEC:

Rockets

Rockets are iconic, known for their powerful ascent and aerial burst. They consist of a motor to propel them skyward and a head containing the effects.

  • F2 Rockets: Typically smaller, with an NEC of around 15g (but 75g is the limit), requiring an 8-metre safety distance.

  • F3 Rockets: Larger and more powerful, with an NEC that can reach up to 200g. These require a minimum safety distance of 25 metres.

  • Safety Tip: Always launch rockets from a stable launch tube, angled away from spectators and property. The stick will return to the ground, so ensure a clear fallout area. Mini rockets are banned for sale to the public in the UK.

Fountains

Fountains are ground-based fireworks that produce a spray of sparks, colours, and sometimes whistles or crackles. They're great for adding lower-level interest to a display.

  • F2 Fountains: Vary widely in size and effect, but remain within the 500g NEC limit for individual F2 items. Safety distances are typically 8 metres.

  • F3 Fountains: Will be larger and more intense, with an NEC up to 1000g for individual items, requiring a 25-metre safety distance.

  • Safety Tip: Ensure fountains are placed on a firm, flat, non-combustible surface. Never hold a fountain while lighting it.

Cakes/Barrages (also known as Compound Cakes, Single Ignition Barrages)

Cakes are multi-shot fireworks contained within a single unit, designed to fire multiple tubes automatically from one fuse. They offer a prolonged display of various effects, making them a popular choice.

  • F2 Cakes: Individual F2 cakes are limited to 500g NEC. Compound F2 cakes (fused combinations of smaller F2 cakes) can go up to 2000g NEC. Safety distances are typically 8-15 metres, depending on the specific item.

  • F3 Cakes: Individual F3 cakes can contain up to 1000g NEC. F3 compound cakes, which are essentially pre-fused, larger displays, can reach a total NEC of 4000g. These demand a 25-metre minimum safety distance.

  • Safety Tip: Always secure cakes to the ground using stakes or heavy objects to prevent them from tipping over during firing, especially if they are designed to fan their effects.