During the last NHC3UA meeting there was a question regarding the use of special effects during a theatrical performance.  The following is a letter from Mark Tetreault, the Durham Fire Marshal relaying information that he got from Chris Wyman, the State Fire Marshal.  The message will also be posted to the NHC3UA website “News” page and soon on a forum for discussion.

Brad:

I spoke with Chris Wyman from the State Fire Marshal Office today and got some clarification on flame effects permits.    The state does require a licensed special effects person to be on site of all “ division 1 special effects”   Division 1 special effects include cigarettes, candles, flash paper, small flash pots, and pyrotechnic derived  theatrical smoke.  The local fire authority is allowed to issue permits for these types of effects provided the operator is licensed.    My understanding is if we wanted to have a candle during a performance at Johnson Theater, a licensed flame effects person would need to be on site at all times the candle is being used, perhaps a faculty or staff member.   I understand the licensing requirements for div 1 effects are not very difficult.  Hope this helps, please distribute this as you see fit.

Mark