Our sincerest condolences go out to those who have suffered loss in this terrible catastrophe

We take this opportunity to point out that proper use of proximate pyrotechnics by trained professionals is both safe and enjoyable. These devices are used at over ten thousand events annually without harm to audiences. If well established safety precautions are followed, this proper use as outlined below is inherently very safe.

Pyrotechnics must be suitably manufactured for the purpose.

They must be used by appropriately trained and licensed operators.

They must be discharged in approved venues.

They must be displayed in a manner that fully complies with extant code (NFPA-1126-2001).

This means permit and insurance have been issued. Permitting process typically include filing a site and display plan.  Inspections by authority having jurisdiction (AHJ), ordinarily the fire marshal, take place as provided by law. These inspections involve demonstrations of each device as proposed for use in the approved venue.

These provisions are present in current regulations. Where followed, they have always assured presentations with a high degree of safety.

The terrible loss of life in Rhode Island was a consequence of failure to observe well established current procedures. Additional regulations in response to this tragedy will do no good. What is needed is to enforce those already on the books.