FAQs

Introduction

EG Smokes and pyrotechnic devices are now used in a variety of applications from the traditional use in Paintball and Airsoft games to film and photography shoots, battle re-enactments as well as various training scenarios. Over the past 18+ years that we have been making smoke and pyrotechnic products it has been proved that our products are safe in the hands of responsible users and the perfect enhancement to many scenarios. We have put together a few of the common questions we get asked and some funny ones too.

What is a Risk Assessment?

It is quite common to be asked for a “risk assessment” before doing anything these days, especially when you want to use smokes and pyrotechnic devices, but what is a “risk assessment”?

We think a better question would be “have you assessed the risks”? A risk assessment is just that, an assessment of the risk posed by doing an activity. It gets you to think about the risks and hazard involved in doing an activity and finding solutions to the problems. A risk assessment should not be a means to stop an activity, unless it is illegal or will definitely injure someone.

Further information on assessing the risks of our products can be found here.

Are Smokes and Pyrotechnics Explosives?

The term Explosives covers a whole range of materials; High Explosives are the materials and substances like Dynamite, TNT, Semtex, C4 etc and used for military and commercial purposes such as demolition; High Explosives are initiated by a shockwave and they detonate. The other class are low explosives; these are initiated by heat and the explosive material burns. Low explosives include Pyrotechnics of which Fireworks form a subsection. Therefore, all fireworks are pyrotechnics but not all pyrotechnics are fireworks. Smokes are a sub-type of pyrotechnics which means they are classed as explosives and are treated as such for the purposes of transport and storage.  Therefore, all EG smokes and pyrotechnics are categorised as explosives under the sub-section Pyrotechnic Articles governed in Europe by the Pyrotechnic Articles Directive.

How do Pyrotechnics Work?

Pyrotechnics produce the designed effect by chemical reactions occurring within the device. When the mixture of chemicals making up the pyrotechnic composition(s) are ignited, the chemical reaction produces a combination of heat, light, coloured light, smoke and/or sound.

In order to produce fire, three key elements are required, Fuel (e.g. wood), oxygen (from air) and a heat source. All pyrotechnic devices contain one or more chemicals that provide oxygen to the chemical reaction, they do not need oxygen from the air to burn which means they are very difficult to extinguish once ignited. The use of fire extinguishers, water or other method of putting fires out is useless against pyrotechnics that have already ignited.

How do Pyrotechnics Work?

Pyrotechnics produce the designed effect by chemical reactions occurring within the device. When the mixture of chemicals making up the pyrotechnic composition(s) are ignited, the chemical reaction produces a combination of heat, light, coloured light, smoke and/or sound.

In order to produce fire, three key elements are required, Fuel (e.g. wood), oxygen (from air) and a heat source. All pyrotechnic devices contain one or more chemicals that provide oxygen to the chemical reaction, they do not need oxygen from the air to burn which means they are very difficult to extinguish once ignited. The use of fire extinguishers, water or other method of putting fires out is useless against pyrotechnics that have already ignited.

How is Coloured Smoke Produced?

The chemical mixture within the smoke device is made up of three key chemicals, an oxidiser (provides oxygen), a fuel (consumes oxygen) and solid coloured dyes. We also add various chemicals that help the mixture burn evenly and control the temperature within the device and the speed of burning.

On ignition, the fuel and oxidisers react to produce heat and gas, the heat vaporises the dye and the gas projects it out of the end of the tube. As the dye vapours cool, they condense in the air forming small particles that we see as coloured smoke.

Do Your Smokes Produce Heat and Flames?

All pyrotechnic devices, regardless of manufacturer, produce heat and flames. When the smoke composition is ignited the chemical reaction produces heat which sustains the chemical reaction, and a lot of gas some of which we see as coloured smoke link to “How is coloured Smoke produced”. As the chemical composition burns producing the heat and gas, the gas is forced through the narrow opening(s) at the end(s) of the tube, increasing the pressure and projecting the smoke particles outward. However, along with the smoke, heat is also carried in the gas which is concentrated at the narrowing at the end of the tube and gives a very hot plume of gas where it exits the tube. This gas is as hot as a flame. The heat dissipates quickly but the smoke remains very hot to about 150mm / 6 inches from the exit point. The hot gas can cause burns to skin and can also ignite dry materials such as dried grass, twigs, bracken and fuels such as petrol, diesel and gas.

To prevent burns to skin:

– Wear gloves that are made of natural material(s) (manmade fibres tend to melt).

– Point away from yourself and others when igniting and when smoke is being emitted.

– Keep hands and fingers away from the ends of the smoke devices.

– Cover bare skin.

Can Your Smokes Cause Fires?

The simple answer is yes, all smokes and pyrotechnic devices regardless of manufacturer have the potential to cause fire if they are not used correctly and some simple precautions aren’t taken.

No single place of use is the is the same as another and some carry more risks than others.

We have customers using smoke grenades from the top of Norway to the South of Spain that have some of the driest areas in Europe.

The use of smoke grenades in dry areas should be managed much more closely than in damper or more humid places. If the place you wish to use our products is a dry woodland or the area is bone dry and predominantly dry foliage on the ground, then you need to manage the risk more vigilantly than using on concrete or non-flammable surfaces. We have many customers that successfully use our smokes and other pyrotechnic devices in the driest parts of the world without problems; they manage the risk.

For example, in dry areas some of the preventative measure that could be taken are:

  • Do not use near flammable substances like petrol, diesel and gas cannisters.
  • Dampen the area first,
  • Use a heat proof covering to protect the surroundings e.g. fire blanket, metal bucket,
  • Don’t use white smoke, this way you can tell smoke from fires vs smoke from a smoke device.
  • If using in a very large area, have spotters with extinguishers to keep an eye on where devices are used.
  • Keep firefighting equipment for example buckets of water close to hand.

Do Smoke Devices Get Hot?

ALL smokes and pyrotechnic devices produce heat from a chemical formula that burns without the need for atmospheric oxygen. Once ignited is very difficult to stop, until all composition within is burnt. Due to this, the casing of devices does get hot and the smoke within 6” of the grenade is hot and could potentially burn.

As heat is produced during the chemical reaction, the casing of the smoke also becomes hot. The tube that usually contains the coloured smoke composition is made of cardboard, as this is an insulating material the casing becomes hot gradually rather than instantaneously. By the time the device has stopped producing smoke, the casing can be very hot to the touch and may cause burns if picked up immediately.

To prevent burns from used smokes:

  • Always leave the used smoke at least 10 minutes (longer for the larger smokes) before picking up.
  • Use gloves made of natural fibres.
  • Cool used devices with water before picking up.

What is Coloured Smoke Made From?

The smoke consists of solid dyes that are heated during the chemical reaction and vaporised. The dye vapours are projected from the device and as they cool, they condense in the air forming small particles that we see as coloured smoke. The chemicals that make up the coloured smoke in themselves are not harmful however, any smoke that is created from particles e.g. wood smoke, car emissions, may adversely affect those with pre-existing breathing conditions such as asthma and CPD.

Do Smokes and Pyrotechnic Devices Produce Sparks?

Smokes are pyrotechnics which function by burning a chemical composition. To ignite this composition there is an igniter e.g. Wire Pull® Igniter and a fuse. The purpose of the Wire Pull® igniter is to take a mechanical action (pulling the metal ring) and turn it into a chemical reaction which produces hot chemical particles in order to ignite the fuse. The fuse transfers the heat along its path and ignites the smoke composition by bombarding the composition with small sparks in a concentrated area. During the ignition process some of these sparks may be projected away from the device. When the composition has been ignited there can be on occasion small lumps of chemical formula that may be projected by the escaping gas and act as sparks within the smoke plume.  

What Should I do if a Product Misfires?

On rare occasions the link between the igniter and fuse or the fuse and smoke composition does breakdown meaning that the transfer of heat doesn’t make it to the smoke compositions and the product doesn’t ignite immediately. The significant word here is immediately as the smoke may ignite later than expected or not at all. If it starts up later than expected and you are looking down the business end you could get a face full of spark or hot gas, if you are holding incorrectly thinking it won’t ignite then you could get burns to your hand.

Do Your Devices Contain Plastic or Metal Components?

In the construction of our smokes we try our hardest to only use materials that are recyclable or pose the least harm to our environment. We are constantly looking at ways of reducing the amount of non-recyclable materials in our products, but sometimes it is unavoidable.

All our smokes that use the Wire Pull® Ignition system have a metal ring, a wire that you can see a metal cup and a small plastic fuse holder within the device. When ignited by pulling the metal ring and sideways, the internal composition ignites and the metal cup gets hot. We have designed the product to entrap the metal cup and prevent it being projected; however, always point the smoke away from people and yourself to prevent accidental burns from sparks and hot ash. Ensure that the metal ring and wire are placed in a pocket or pouch and then disposed of in a bin, do not throw on the ground where they may injure someone or an animal.

Do the Smokes and Pyrotechnics Always Perform Exactly the Same?

Our pyrotechnic products are designed to give the most consistent and visually appealing effects. We quality check our products at source and in Europe they are further batch tested in accordance with the European Pyrotechnic Articles Directive and CE marked accordingly.

However, they are pyrotechnics made by hand and variations do happen, smoke may be a little shorter or longer duration, the noise produced maybe a little quieter.

Do You Test Your Smoke and Pyrotechnic Devices Before Selling Them?

Yes.

3rd Light Ltd is authorised by the German Notified Body BAM to test our products. We are audited every two years by BAM to ensure our procedures are correct.

In accordance with the European Pyrotechnics Directive, we batch test all our products before supplying them. When each shipment arrives, we select a specified quantity of products from each batch to test to ensure they conform with the specified standards.

If when tested the products perform within specification, we issue a conformity certificate (link to conformity certificate) for that batch of products.

If during testing these variations are too big and outside of specification, we quarantine and dispose of that batch.

What is a Conformity Certificate?

This is a certificate that issued to a batch of products when it has passed quality control testing. A conformity certificate details the Product batch and date tested. The conformity certificates for EG products can be found here.

I Have Seen Pictures and Instructions on the Web and Social Media.

Using pyrotechnics is not entirely without risk, our labelling and instructions take into account product variations and provide all necessary information to use the products safely.

The most important instructions are supplied with or on the product. Always follow these instructions, other information can be found on our website into the use of our pyrotechnic products. However, if there are any written instructions or images that cause confusion ALWAYS follow the instructions on or supplied with the product. Further information can be found on our website and you are always welcome to call our office for assistance.

We do not recommend using instructions or images you may find on the web or 3rd party social media social media as the basis for instructions on how to use our smokes and pyrotechnic devices.

Many of the images are created by professionals who accept the liability for use of the products and use additional safety measures that may not be visible to ensure the user and people in the vicinity are kept safe.

We cannot guarantee the accuracy of information that is put out by other people or companies, therefore 3rd Light / EG cannot not accept any liability where our products have been used in a different way to that given in the product instructions.

Why do You Recommend Wearing Protective Gloves and Eye Protection for Smoke Products?

We recommend wearing protective gloves and eye protection when using any of our smokes or other pyrotechnic devices. Smokes are included in this because, on ignition some sparks and hot gases are produced; Occasionally sparks and hot ash are also ejected whilst smoke is being produced.

Can I Hold the Smokes?

We do not recommend holding any of our pyrotechnic devices after they have been ignited.

Any brand of smoke can produce some sparks, flame and hot ash on ignition and occasionally during the smoke effect, the ash and sparks can burn you or people near you if you are holding or waving them around. During the production of smoke heat is produced, we try to keep this to a minimum, but they do get warm or hot. Unless stated otherwise on the label, smokes should only be held to ignite the device (gloves should be worn). Once ignited they should be placed on the ground or deployed in a safe area away from flammable materials.

Can I Use Smokes Anywhere?

Our first rule for using smokes is “can people easily move away from the smoke if they wish?” if the answer to this is yes i.e. you are using the smoke in an open area that isn’t crowded and people can move freely, then it is fine to use the smoke. If the answer to this question is no i.e. you want to use smoke in a crowded area where people can’t move freely away from the smoke, then we recommend you do not use smokes.

Wherever you wish to use smokes or pyrotechnic devices, you should always get the permission from the landowner or local authority before using.

I Have Heard Your Smoke is OK to Use at Football Games?

We do not condone the use of smoke or any pyrotechnic devices at football games. It is illegal and you may face a custodial sentence if you use or are carrying smoke or any pyrotechnic device in a football ground or stadium.

Am I Allowed to Carry the Smokes and Pyrotechnic Devices in my Pockets?

We try very hard to ensure that our smokes are safe to use and will not go off accidentally. The products are provided with caps, tape or in boxes to prevent the metal ring being accidentally pulled or the friction fuse being struck. For our friction ignited products we keep the striker plate away from the fuse by having the cap secured to the main body of the smoke with the label. Despite all these efforts there is still a possibility that the smokes maybe accidentally activated if handled roughly or undue forces are applied. Therefore, do not carry smokes in your pockets, use a carry bag or pouch that can be easily removed from your person if an accidental ignition does occur thus preventing the possibility of being burnt.

Safety Distance

Despite all our efforts, the products we manufacture are pyrotechnics, they produce a lot of heat and on occasions they may produce unexpected effects. To ensure that no person is injured, or property is damaged, ensure that the safety distance is adhered to. The safety distance is the distance of the smoke or pyrotechnic to any person (including the person igniting) or property.

Does Coloured Smoke Stain?

The simple answer is yes. Coloured Smoke is produced from vaporising / dispersing coloured dyes. These dyes are often the same ones as used to make coloured clothing. If the coloured smoke plume is placed too close to an object, material or surface it will most probably stain it (within 2m). The further away the smoke is the less likelihood of staining, the cloud of smoke is less likely to stain compared to the main jet or plume of smoke as it exits the tube. Ensure the smoke outlet(s) are pointing away from anything that mustn’t be stained or use something to protect it like a metal bucket or non-flammable covering. Ensure that the smoke is downwind for further protection.

How Can I Clean Coloured Smoke Stains from Clothing?

It is not easy cleaning smoke stains from clothing or property and the cleaning process may itself cause damage. Before starting any cleaning process, always try on a small discreet area to ensure that the cleaning process wont further damage the item of clothing or property.

This advice is given in good faith, 3rd Light / Enola Gaye will not be held responsible where the cleaning process has caused further damage to an item of clothing or property. Always read the instruction supplied with any chemicals used.

How Can I Clean Coloured Smoke Stains from Clothing?

It is not easy cleaning smoke stains from clothing or property and the cleaning process may itself cause damage. Before starting any cleaning process, always try on a small discreet area to ensure that the cleaning process wont further damage the item of clothing or property.

This advice is given in good faith, 3rd Light / Enola Gaye will not be held responsible where the cleaning process has caused further damage to an item of clothing or property. Always read the instruction supplied with any chemicals used.

Clothing – Dry cleaning or repetitive washing may remove the stain.

Property – Wiping or cleaning surfaces with acetone.

Grass – normal weather conditions will remove the stain over time. Normal grass maintenance e.g. cutting will eventually remove the stain.

How Can I Tell if I've Received the Correct Product?

Many of our smoke and pyrotechnic products and are similar in size and shape, for example Wire Pull® Smoke and Burst Wire Pull® or Twin Vent Smoke; EG18 and EG18X smokes; CM75 and SD75 Smokes. Flash Grenades are also the same size and shape as Wire Pull® smokes.  It is important that you know which product you have as the effects and hazards associated with each product can be different.

Before using, check the labelling; each product is clearly labelled with the type of product and the direction the effect comes out of the device. For example, the Wire Pull® Smoke produces smoke from one end and indicated by two V-shaped arrows pointing toward the top of the device; whilst the Burst Wire Pull® Smoke also known as Twin Vent Smokes produces smoke from both ends which is indicated by two V-shaped arrows pointing to the top of the smoke and two V-shaped arrows pointing to the bottom of the smoke.

If you don’t know what the product does or you are unsure about the effects produced, test some out first in a safe environment away from people before you use it for your desired purpose.

How do I Dispose of a Product that Hasn't Ignited?

On the rare occasion when a product hasn’t ignited and you need to dispose of it, there are two routes for disposal.

  1. Return products to the distributor or place of purchase. Use original packaging and fill any spaces with packaging material. Ensure the package is sealed properly. Transport yourself or use an approved courier that can transport pyrotechnics, DO NOT send through the post.
  2. Submerge in a bucket of water allowing water to enter the product. Leave soaking outside for at least for 48 hours in a secure area. Dispose of the waste according to Local or national regulations.

Can I Send Smokes and Pyrotechnic Devices Through the Post?

NO.

Smokes and Pyrotechnic devices from any manufacturer are all subtypes of explosives (link to Are Smokes and Pyrotechnics Explosives?).  It is illegal to send any type of smoke or other pyrotechnic device through the post. You may face prosecution and a custodial sentence if your send these types of devices through the post.

How do I Dispose of a Used Product?

Devices that have been used can be disposed of with general waste. Ensure that the devices are fully extinguished and cold before putting in a bin. To make sure there is no hot spots within the device that could cause a fire, run the carcase under a tap and fill with water, then empty.

What Does 'Cool Burning' Mean?

The term “cool burn” or “cold burning” originally came a from a USA company.  It refers to the fact that there is no external flame produced and that the temperature of the cartridge is lower than the military and marine distress smokes (which get extremely hot), which reduces the risk of fire. However, coloured smoke is produced by a pyrotechnic reaction and so regardless of this claim there is a possibility of fire with ANY smoke coloured smoke device and no smoke device should be used on or near easily flammable materials without an understanding the hazards and a thought-out system to manage the risks.

ALL smoke grenades that produce smoke from a wire/ring pull, friction fuse or similar ignition, produce smoke from a formula that burns without the need for atmospheric oxygen. Once ignited is very difficult to stop, until all composition within is burnt. Due to this, the grenade casing does get warm and the smoke within 6” of the grenade is hot and could potentially burn.

Our smokes produce some sparks on ignition but no flame and so after the initial start-up of the grenade, our Wire Pull Smokes are considered “cool burn” or “cold burning” given the above definition. During the production of smoke, our products do produce heat but we have tried to keep this to a minimum and so our devices although they do get warm, can be held in the hand during the functioning of the device, however the heat does increase post functioning as there is a lag in the heat transfer through the device due to the insulating effect of the cardboard. We strongly recommend that anyone using Enola Gaye Smoke Grenades wears gloves.

How Can I Become a Dealer of EG Products?

If you would like to be an EG dealer or just buy in bulk for your own events, then e-mail steve@enolagaye.com or contact the office.

You will be asked to provide us with your company details as well as signing up to our terms and conditions. Once you we have all this information then you should be good to go and order EG products.

However, we reserve the right to refuse or revoke dealer status.

Shipping, Dispatch & Delivery

Smokes and pyrotechnic devices are classed as Dangerous Goods and therefore there are restrictions on how they can be shipped. When shipping any smoke(s) or pyrotechnic device(s), they must be packed correctly, and the boxes marked and labelled appropriately.  Smokes and pyrotechnic devices must not be sent through the postal system, it is illegal. We send via approved couriers which have specialties in shipping Dangerous Goods.

Once shipped, the products are the responsibility of the courier and we cannot be accountable for delays whilst with the courier.

Cost of Delivery

Smokes and Pyrotechnics cannot be sent by post and can only be distributed by approved couriers. The cost of shipping these types of dangerous goods via approved couriers is expensive especially for small quantities. The cost of shipping does become proportionally cheaper the more you buy.

When Will my Products be Dispatched?

UK Domestic orders placed online or by phone before 12 noon, we aim to dispatch the same day if we have the stock available at our local store. For orders where we have to collect the products from our main store, we aim to dispatch the products within 3 to 4 days. Once dispatched you will receive an e-mail confirmation and tracking details for your order. If you are buying products for a specific event, please order early and contact the office for delivery information.

When Will my Products be Delivered (UK Mainland)?

Within the UK delivery usually takes 2-3 working days, however an overnight delivery service for   maybe available by specific arrangement an additional cost and no guarantee. Saturday delivery can also be arranged at an extra charge please contact the office.

When Will my Products be Delivered (Northern Ireland)?

Shipping to Northern Ireland is restricted, please contact the office with your order and we can advise on timescales and costs. You will need a permit/license from the local police or magistrates in in order for us to ship your order.

When Will my Products be Delivered (Europe)?

Please contact the office for shipping and delivery information.

When Will my Products be Delivered (International Excluding North America)?

Please contact the office for information and pricing on international shipments. You may require an import permit or other license to ship, store and / or use smokes and pyrotechnic devices.

When Will my Products be Delivered (North America)?

Please contact our USA or Canadian offices as appropriate.

Where do You / Can You Ship Your Smokes and Pyrotechnics?

To find a stockiest nearest to you, please visit our dealer’s page.

In most cases we can arrange shipping to most places in the world from one of our main offices in the UK, USA and Canada. International shipping can be expensive, in most cases, shipments will require an import permit and the products to be collected from the main airport in the destination country. If you require any information on delivery and shipping, please email support@enolagaye.com or call the office on +44 (0)1189 714470

Will You Sponsor Us?

We do not sponsor anyone and everyone, if you would like us to sponsor you in some way, please email Ash (ashley@enolagaye.com) who will discuss sponsorship with you.

Which Direction do I Pull the Metal Ring?

Each product comes with very clear instructions on the label or within the packaging, please read and follow these instructions.

Video instructions can also be found on each product page.

In general, if the wire comes out of the side of the product, then the wire/metal ring needs to be pulled sideways (90 degrees / at right angles/ perpendicular) to the main body of the device. If the wire comes out of the top of the device then the wire /metal ring needs to be pulled (upwards or away from / parallel) to the main body of the device.

Why Don't You Use or Share my Imagery with Your Smokes?

Some of the images and videos we receive from our customers using our products are amazing and we would love to use / share your creative works. We can only share or use imagery that follows our rules on use.

If you have stunning images that fall within our use criteria (as explained on the labelling) we would happily share it with the world.

What is CE Marking?

Once products have passed batch testing then we can CE mark them and place them on the market. Smokes and Pyrotechnics that are not CE marked should not be available and should not be used as they may be dangerous.

The CE mark should be in the following format:

CE

  • AAAA refers to the identification number of the notified body who originally tested and approved the product design,
  • P refers to the article category (P1 or P2),
  • BBBB is the unique reference code for this type of product issued by the notified body who originally tested and approved the product design,
  • CCCC is the identification number of the Notified Body responsible for monitoring the company’s quality management system.

What Does P1 Mean?

All pyrotechnic devices are given a category depending on their area of use and who can buy them.

EG smokes and pyrotechnic devices come under category P (Fireworks are category F and Theatrical pyrotechnics are category T).

Within the P category there are two subcategories, P1 and P2.

If a smoke or pyrotechnic is categorised as P1 then it can be supplied to and used by any person over the age of 18 without the need for any specific usage license (may require storage license).

If a smoke or Pyrotechnic is categorised as P2, thin it can only be supplied to and used by a person of specialist knowledge or a person holding a license allowing them to be supplied P2 products.

What Does NEC Stand For?

NEC stands for Net Explosive Content this is also sometimes referred to as Net Explosive Quantity (NEQ) or Net Explosive Weight (NEW). Whichever term is used, they all refer to the same thing which is the weight of the actual explosive composition within the device.

For example, in a smoke device the NEC is the weight of the actual smoke composition plus the ignition composition and fuses, it does not include the weight of the tube, label, clay, plastic parts etc.

Do I Need a Storage License?

This depends on the quantity of Smoke and Pyrotechnics you are or wish to store. In the UK if you are storing more than 5Kg of Net Explosive Content (NEC) then you will need to have some form of license or registration. In the UK, the level of licensing and the storage requirements is dependent on the NEC weight.

5 Kg and 250 Kg – local authority registration

250 Kg – 2000 Kg – Local authority License

> 2000 Kg Heath and Safety Executive Explosives storage license

There are exemptions for short term storage.

More information can be found on our storage guidance page or at https://www.hse.gov.uk/explosives/licensing/storage/index.htm

For other countries, the rules and weights at which the need for a storage license is needed will be different but will always refer to the NEC being stored. Outside of the UK you will need to check with the local police, magistrate or other authority if a storage license is required.

Can I Take Smoke and Pyrotechnic Devices on a Plane?

The simple answer is NO! Smoke devices and other pyrotechnic devices are class 1 dangerous goods (explosives). If you are found trying to take these onto a plane, then you will most likely be arrested and have a very bad day.

Do Smoke Devices Smell?

Yes, there is a smell produced by smoke devices. Coloured smokes should be used outdoors in a well-ventilated area. The smell can be easily removed from clothes by normal washing.

Can I Use Smoke Devices Indoors?

No, we do not recommend using any smokes inside. We only recommend using Smoke devices outdoors in a well-ventilated area.

Do Smoke Devices Explode?

There is a theoretical chance that this may occur, but it is very rare and in our many years of manufacturing and distributing smoke devices globally we have not had a smoke device explode when used. They sometimes may perform differently and burn faster than normal or spit out hot ash if they have been treated roughly, but we have never had one that went bang and ruptured the casing.

Can I Modify One of Your Smokes or Pyrotechnic Devices to use at an Event?

EG smokes and pyrotechnic devices are carefully designed and constructed to perform safely. We will not accept any liability for any damage or injury caused when EG products have been modified or tampered with.

What is the Date Shown on an EG Smoke or Packaging?

This is the manufactured date and is a legal requirement in many countries. Do not mistake this for a use by date.

Do Smokes Expire?

The shelf life is dependent on storage conditions. Smokes stored in dry conditions at a steady ambient temperature will last many years. However, storing in damp conditions or fluctuating temperatures, freezing or humid conditions will significantly reduce the shelf life.

Are Smoke Devices Legal in the UK?

Yes, unless you are being stupid with them. Smokes and pyrotechnic devices that are CE marked and categorised as P1 may be supplied to and used by anyone over the age of 18. Those categorised as P2 may only be supplied to and used by persons with specialist knowledge (licensed).

Using smokes on private land with the landowner’s position is perfectly fine, however using smoke in public places is illegal unless permission has been sought from the local authority.

When using smoke, always be aware of smoke drift so as not to cause visibility problems to vehicles and pedestrians that may be using nearby highways.

Are Smoke Devices Toxic?

The smoke produced by coloured smoke devices is a particulate smoke. The cloud of smoke is made from small particles in the air just like smoke from a bonfire.

We recommend avoid breathing the smoke, whilst the smoke itself is not toxic, it may cause irritation and coughing. People with existing breathing problems such as asthma and COPD may be adversely affected by the smoke and it may cause breathing difficulties.

Is Smoke From a Smoke Device the Same as Smoke From a Smoke or Haze Machine?

No, they are completely different. Pyro smoke is made from solid particles and fog machine / haze is made from liquid particulates. Both types of smoke have advantages and disadvantages depending on their use. Please see guidance on the differences between these smoke systems.