A simple device for generating pyrotechnic effects, in which an enveloping body (11) is formed from a plurality of interconnected plate-like layers between which the pyrotechnic charges (10) as well as the igniter means (12) are embedded. A configuration of the igniter means (12) as heating resistors, in particular as heating resistors whose conductors run in a meandering path. Such igniter means (12) are particularly suitable for use in the formation of a plate-like enveloping body consisting of a plurality of layers. By virtue of this enveloping body, the device assumes a shape comparable to that of a credit card or bank card.