NAME THAT FIREWORK
There are more than a dozen different types of aerial fireworks!
Here are 10 examples of the pyrotechnics that you might see at this year’s celebration:
PEONY
The most common type of firework, the peony shell is characterized by a spherical break of colored stars that burn without generating a trail of sparks, or tail effect.
Chrysanthemum
Similar to a peony, a chrysanthemum has a spherical break of colored stars, though its stars leave behind a trail of sparks.
Willow
The willow resembles a chrysanthemum, but with long burning silver or gold stars that produce a soft, dome-shaped weeping willow-like effect.
Diadem
As a type of peony or chrysanthemum, a diadem has a cluster of stationary stars at its center.
Palm
This shell contains a few large comet stars, which in bursting create large tendrils that give it the appearance of a palm tree.
Crossette
A crossette produces stars that each break apart into four smaller stars, creating a crisscross effect.
Horsetail
The horsetail shell is identifiable by its break, which resembles a short tail.
Ring
A ring shell emits stars in a halo-like shape. Smiley faces, stars and other such identifiable shapes are common variants.
Roman Candle
A Roman candle is a long cylinder that can discharge either a single large star or a series of them between short intervals.
Photo courtesy of Matt Buck via Wikimedia Commons. 
Cake
With a fuse that sets off a variety of effects in succession, a cake is essentially many Roman candles fused together. Cakes vary widely in size, though some can contain over 1,000 shots.
Photo courtesy of KSDigital via Wikimedia Commons.
FIREWORKS & PTSD
Fireworks are commonly used to celebrate a variety of events, from holidays and music concerts to sporting events, and our favorite holiday to celebrate – Independence Day! While they are intended to entertain, the loud noises, bright lights, and strong smells can sometimes cause distress. Individuals who have experienced trauma involving explosions, gunfire, loud noises, or fire may find fireworks to be a trigger, reminding them of past events.
Whether fireworks are anticipated or unexpected, and for families planning events that feature them, below are some resources to help you and your loved ones manage their effects.
RESOURCES & SUPPORT
U.S. DEPARTMENT OF VETERANS AFFAIRS | NATIONAL INSTITUTES OF HEALTH | EVERYDAY HEALTH | AARP