Do you use protection?

[PyroMonkey]

Get your mind out of the gutter! I'M TALKING ABOUT HEARING PROTECTION.

When you're working on a pyro show, hand-lighting shells, do you wear hearing protection? If you're the lead shooter, do you require your crew to use hearing protection? I enjoy the thump of a shell leaving the mortar as much as the next guy (even good 1.4 shells)... but I also value my hearing. I've met a lot of pyros who have damaged their ears at a relatively young age because they're "thump junkies". On the other hand, I do see folks at PGI, etc., wearing those electronic ear protectors (used for firearms and stuff).

Be kind to yourself... yer hearing don't grow back once it's gone!

[Pyro Nation]

I use ear plugs, safety glasses, and wear a hat...

[classb2001]

I have always used safety glasses and a hard hat, never used hearing protection. Guess I'm lucky I still have great hearing after 22 years of shooting....I just love the thump !!!

[pyroblast]

basically when i shot hand fired i had a baseball catchers outfit i.e. helmet , chest protector , cup for the jewels , shin guards , steel toe boots , hearing protection and cotton gloves .all cotton clothes

[Pyro Nation]

Oh definite on the cotton clothes. All ya need to get your clothing melted to ya...