Definition
Hand firing consists of lighting each firework directly, with a hand torch, a pyrotechnic flare fixed to the end of a pole, or a blowtorch. It is the historical method, still used for small shows, set pieces and certain local traditions. The pyrotechnician walks along the firing line in flame-resistant clothing, helmet and goggles, lights the piece's slow fuse and withdraws while it burns. It requires staying inside the danger area during the show, limits the pace to what one person can light and rules out fine synchronisation. The applicable safety distances and the categories concerned depend on national rules and manufacturer instructions; many pyrotechnicians now reserve hand firing for ground effects and fire everything aerial electrically.
In practice, for the display company
A hand-fired show is declared as such: the file states the firing method, protective clothing and the position of the pyrotechnicians during the show. PyroDesk infers the firing mode from the modules assigned in the firing plan (no module means manual), carries it into the declaration file and the subcontractor portal, and adapts the rigging sheet.