The present invention relates to an improved apparatus for safely igniting a pyrotechnic device such as a flare which is suspended by a parachute following deployment from an air craft. More specifically, the present invention relates to a two stage ignition train mechanism for use with parachute suspended illumination flares with an in-line firing pin and physical safety mechanism which blocks movement of the firing pin until the parachute is deployed. The present invention also discloses an embodiment of a two stage ignition train mechanism for use with parachute suspended illumination flares with out-of-line firing pin and physical safety mechanism which blocks the firing pin from striking the primer until the parachute is deployed.