T-shirt cannons add excitement to any crowd, whether at a conference, sports game, or an indoor concert. But when you think about those energetic launches indoors, you may wonder if it’s safe.
This is a completely understandable thing to wonder. After all, flying projectiles aren’t always suitable for indoor environments. In this post, we’ll answer the question of whether you use a T-shirt cannon indoors so you have all the info you need to carry out a safe event.
Are T-Shirt Cannons Safe To Use Indoors?
In most scenarios, absolutely! In fact, the controlled environment of an indoor space can help make T-shirt cannon launches even more predictable and safe. However, confined spaces, lower ceilings, and more concentrated crowds require special attention so there are no hiccups in the overall experience.
Factors To Consider Before Using a T-Shirt Cannon Indoors
Of course, not all indoor spaces are created equally. Some are large and expansive, while others are small and constrained. Keeping that in mind, here are the most important factors to consider when determining if you can use a T-shirt cannon indoors.
Ceiling Height
In general, venues with low ceilings might restrict the cannon’s trajectory and create bounce-back risks or potential damage to the venue. Height isn’t the only factor, though. Depending on the location, your ceiling might have rafters or other parts that hang down that your T-shirts could get caught on. While this doesn’t increase risk levels, it can be a real downer if all your merch gets caught in the ceiling and not in people’s hands.
Range and Power of the Cannon
Not all T-shirt cannons are created equal. Some are designed to launch shirts toward sprawling stadium seats, while others are meant for shorter-range fun. Always check the cannon’s range capability before purchasing one to make sure it matches your venue size.
If ranges aren’t given, then avoid high-pressure cannons made specifically for outdoor stadiums. If possible, look for models with adjustable power settings or those specifically recommended for use in short-range applications.
Overpowered cannons can make T-shirts hit walls, ceilings, or, worst of all, people in a way that isn’t fun or safe. Stay within the recommended pressure levels for these types of confined areas!
Venue Regulations
Before the cannon makes its debut, check with the venue staff or management about their policies on T-shirt cannons. Some locations might have specific guidelines regarding the use of air-powered devices, especially those with pyrotechnics regulations or insurance clauses to consider. Knowing the rules ahead of time ensures your cannon is a crowd-pleaser rather than a rule-breaker.
Safety Tips for Using T-Shirt Cannons Indoors
Even once you have the right type of T-shirt cannon for indoor use, you still need to make sure you handle it responsibly. Here are some tried-and-true safety tips to make your indoor launch a hit while avoiding potential mishaps.
Don’t Point the Cannon at People
It should go without saying, but never aim the cannon directly at someone, even if they’re eagerly waving to catch a shirt. T-shirt cannons are designed to launch with enough force to reach far corners of a stadium, which means they can hit harder than you think! Instead, aim toward open spaces, letting the crowd jump and grab as the T-shirts come down gently.
Avoid Aiming at Anything Breakable
Keep the cannon’s aim far away from lights, projectors, banners, or expensive electronics. Before you launch the cannon, scan the venue for anything that looks like it would make an expensive (or dangerous) target, like a screen. If you take a few moments to do this before firing T-shirts, you shouldn’t have anything to worry about.
Keep a Safe Distance From the Crowd
Positioning matters more than you think when using a T-shirt cannon inside a crowded venue. Make sure the cannon operator stands far enough away to avoid potential close-range accidents.
As a general rule, staying at least 12 to 15 feet away from the front row is a safe and easy-to-follow starting point. This distance lets you maintain control over where the T-shirts land while still giving the crowd space to react and grab their flying goodies.
Learn the Rolled T-Shirt Technique
How you prepare the T-shirt can make a huge difference in its flight path. Rolling T-shirts tightly and securing them with a rubber band creates a more aerodynamic shape for longer, smoother launches. However, in smaller spaces, this might be more of a detriment than a boon.
In those scenarios, try lightly rolling the T-shirts up without anything holding them together. This will allow them to cover a considerable distance before opening up and slowing down. Plus, arranging shirts this way can make it more fun for your audience since an open T-shirt will be harder to predict.
Only Trained Personnel Should Handle the Cannon
A T-shirt cannon isn’t just a random gadget you hand off to anyone in the room. You should only entrust it to someone who knows its ins and outs, from adjusting the air pressure to scanning the crowd and maintaining proper aim.
Most canons are easy to use with little guidance, but that doesn’t mean the new person should take the reins at the next event. Instead, take the time needed to train the person handling the cannon so they’re aware of where not to aim and how to troubleshoot issues such as misfires.
Take Your Indoor Events to the Next Level
So, can you use a T-shirt cannon indoors? In most instances, you sure can. A T-shirt cannon can create an unforgettable experience indoors, but only when done right! By keeping your venue’s dimensions, the cannon’s capabilities, and safety precautions in mind, you can dazzle your crowd with flying T-shirts while staying worry-free.
If you’re ready to take the next step and purchase your new T-shirt cannon, take a look at our collection at Air Cannons. Each cannon is made with specific ranges in mind, so find the one that fits your venue’s ceiling requirements and order with us today.