At first glance, a firework might seem pretty self-explanatory…or completely confusing. You might recognize some of the information, but then you’re left guessing what it actually does once it’s lit. That’s where understanding how to read a firework label comes in. The label can tell you a lot about performance, size, and color, but it’s important to know that not all labels are the same. The information shown on the label can vary depending on the brand and category, so while some are very detailed, others may tell you nothing.

The Basics of a Firework Label

Let’s start with the basics. When you first pick up a firework, you’ll be looking at the front label. This is usually where you’ll find indicators like 200 gram or 500 gram, which refer to the amount of pyrotechnic composition in the firework. These numbers don’t tell you everything, but they’re helpful to note when comparing products. You may also find a shot count on the front label. This refers to the number of shots the firework will produce.

Firework packaging is meant to grab your attention. Bright colors, fun artwork, and bold names help them stand out on the shelf. But once you pick one up, the label is what helps you understand what you’re actually buying. Look for key information like shot count, special effects, or duration if they’re listed, and remember that this part of the label is more about identification than detailed performance.

Example:

Understanding Performance Information

Now let’s get into the more detailed portion of the label that really explains how a firework will perform. Many fireworks include a reference guide on the side or back of the box. This guide will break down things like effect type, height, spread, noise level, duration, and more.

Each section of a reference guide gives you a clue about what to expect in the sky. For example, Levels shows how high the firework will reach, while Spread tells you the direction(s) of the shots. The Performance section provides a short description of what effects you can expect, and the Colors section indicates the colors you’ll see, making it easier to choose a firework that matches the kind of show you want.

Example:

Bonus Tip: Many firework brands now include a QR code on the packaging that you can scan to watch a video of the firework in action. This can give you a sense of what to expect, but nothing compares to seeing it in person. Keep in mind that the colors and sound in the video may not perfectly match what you’d see in real life. Cameras have a hard time capturing fireworks, so colors are often diluted and sound can be dampened.

Wrapping It All Up

Learning how to read a firework label takes a little practice, but once you know what to look for, it can make choosing fireworks much less stressful. From understanding basic indicators to using reference guides, labels give you valuable insight into what a firework will actually do. While not every label includes the same level of detail, it’s helpful to know how to use any information that is given to you. Taking a moment to read and understand what’s there can help you feel more confident in your choices and get the kind of show you’re expecting when it’s time to light the fuse.