Keeping Safety in Mind

We've always been told to be careful around fire for good reason: fire can be dangerous! So, you may be wondering, "Doesn't this book advocate playing with fire?"

Indeed it does, but this type of play has both purpose and reason. The projects have been designed to be exciting and fun, and, very often, the result of a successfully rendered experiment is something catching on fire or an explosion. But there is a method to this madness, and what's described here is much different from foolishly playing with matches or causing destructive fires.

It's very important to note that if you don't follow the directions closely many of the projects in The Practical Pyromaniac could harm you or people around you. Always follow the project instructions closely. Don't make changes to the materials or construction techniques. This can lead to unexpected and unintended results. Further, be aware that some projects describe using materials in ways and under conditions that depart from the manufacturers' recommendations, so leaks, breaks, and other failures may be more likely to occur.

A Very Important Message

The projects described in the following pages have been designed with safety foremost in mind. However, as you try them out, there is still a possibility that something unexpected may occur. It is important that you understand that neither the author, the publisher, nor the bookseller can or will guarantee your safety. When you try the projects described here, you do so at your own risk.

Some of the projects have been popular for many years, while others are new and were designed specifically for this book. Unfortunately, even if you do everything correctly, something could still go wrong and cause damage to both property and people. The likelihood of such an occurrence is remote as long as you follow the directions, but things can still go wrong. Always use good common sense and remember that all experiments and projects are carried out at your own risk.

Be aware that each city, town, and municipality has its own rules and regulations, some of which may apply to projects described in The Practical Pyromaniac. Further, local authorities have wide latitude to interpret the law. Therefore, you should take time to understand the rules, regulations, and laws of the area in which you plan to carry out these projects. A check with local law enforcement can tell you whether the project is suitable for your area. If not, there are plenty of other places where all of the projects here can be undertaken safely and legally. If in doubt, be sure to check first!

General Safety Rules

The following are important general safety rules. Note that each chapter also provides specific safety instructions.

1. The experiments described here run the gamut from simple to somewhat complex. Some experiments involve the use of fire, volatile materials, and chemical reagents. The projects described here are designed for adults or, at a minimum, to be closely supervised by adults. Adult supervision is mandatory for all experiments and projects.

2. Read the entire project description carefully before beginning the experiment. Make sure you understand what the experiment is about and what you are trying to accomplish. If something is unclear, reread the directions until you fully comprehend the entire experiment.

3. Don't make substitutions for the chemical powders or liquids indicated for use in each experiment. Specificity counts. For example, substituting methanol for ethanol or a chlorate for a chloride could have serious consequences.

4. Use only the quantities of chemicals listed in the project instructions. Don't use more than specified.

5. Don't substitute materials or alter construction techniques. Don't take shortcuts.

6. Read and obey all product label directions, including the material safety data sheets that accompany chemicals. Acids and other chemicals must be handled appropriately as described on the container labels. Manufacturers are most familiar with how their products work, and their advice takes precedence.

7. Prior to performing any project, remove and safely store all cans or bottles containing flammable substances. Maintain a hazard-free radius of at least 50 feet around the area in which you plan to work.

8. Wear protective eyewear when indicated in the directions. Some experiments call for gloves, proper ventilation, and so forth. Always follow the safety guidelines given in the directions.

9. Visit www.ThePracticalPyromaniac.com prior to performing any project or experiment to check for safety updates and other important information.

10. Keep an all-purpose fire extinguisher ready and close by. All-purpose (often labeled A-B-C) fire extinguishers work on all types of fires. Choose a dry chemical extinguisher that is rated for multiple-purpose use. Widely available and inexpensive, dry chemical extinguishers contain a powdery extinguishing chemical and use a compressed, nonflammable gas as a propellant.

How to Use a Fire Extinguisher

Here's an easy acronym for fire extinguisher use:

P A S S Pull, Aim, Squeeze, and Sweep

PULL the pin at the top of the extinguisher that keeps the handle from being accidentally pressed.

AIM the nozzle toward the base of the fire.

STAND approximately 8 feet from the fire if you can and SQUEEZE the handle to discharge the extinguisher.

SWEEP the nozzle back and forth at the base of the fire.

Remember this: The instructions and information provided here are for your use without any guarantee of safety. Each project has been extensively tested in a variety of conditions. But variations, mistakes, and unforeseen circumstances can and do occur. Therefore, all projects and experiments are performed at your own risk! If you don't agree with this, then do not attempt any experiments or projects.

Finally, there is no substitute for common sense. If something doesn't seem right, stop and review what you are doing. You must take responsibility for your own safety and the safety of others around you.

Obtaining Supplies and Equipment

The projects in The Practical Pyromaniac have been designed to utilize common, inexpensive, and easy-to-find materials whenever possible. The materials and tools required for most projects can be purchased at retail establishments such as hardware stores, craft stores, artist supply stores, and lumberyards. Harder-to-find parts such as polycarbonate plastic or nichrome wire may be sourced from the large online retailer McMaster-Carr (www.mcmaster.com). In addition, a large...