Calls are growing for certain types to be banned from sale
A significant development has emerged in the campaign by animal lovers to outlaw the loudest fireworks throughout Britain. Activists are demanding ministers prevent the sale of excessively loud fireworks because of the distress caused to pets.
The RSPCA has been pushing for legislative reform, stating animals ‘endure terror’. It said: “Each year, through our impact reports, we hear of the devastation, injury and loss of life of animals. It can’t go on. We need you to help us change this by speaking to your MP. With them on our side, we can petition for a change in fireworks laws, to become more considerate of animals, the environment, and vulnerable people.”
A fresh petition on the Parliament website is demanding legal changes to prohibit anything that detonates too loudly, reports the Mirror.
It has garnered support from 48,209 people and says: “Reduce the maximum noise level for consumer fireworks from 120 to 90 decibels. We think each year, individuals suffer because of loud fireworks. We believe horses, dogs, cats, livestock and wildlife can be terrified by noisy fireworks and many people find them intolerable.
“There is independent research suggesting:
• Over half of dog owners report fireworks-anxiety in their dog.
• There’s an 81% increase in missing dogs around Bonfire Night.
• Almost 25% of military veterans say fireworks have caused a negative experience for them
“We think both humans and animals are less likely to be distressed by fireworks noise below 90dB. We believe lower noise levels would allow fireworks to be enjoyed while potentially reducing some of their many negative impacts.”
The petition has rocketed past the 10,000 signature mark needed for a response, prompting the Department for Business and Trade to issue an official statement. Should it reach 100,000 signatures, it could trigger a Parliamentary debate amongst MPs.
The statement read: “The Government recognises that some people have strong feelings about fireworks, and the potential impact they can have on communities, for example, by causing disturbances to vulnerable individuals and groups or animals. However, we also know that fireworks, when used responsibly, are a source of enjoyment for many people.
“A number of animal welfare organisations, along with industry and local authorities, provide advice and guidance to enable people to minimise the negative impacts of fireworks on people, animals and our communities. We work closely with these organisations to amplify this messaging in the run up to, and during, key dates when fireworks are commonly used.
“Current regulations control their sale, availability, and use, including setting a maximum noise level of 120 decibels for consumer fireworks. Many retailers also offer ‘lower noise’ and ‘no bang’ fireworks which are available to purchase by consumers.”
The RSPCA is urging the government to take 5 key actions:
- Reduce the noise level of all traditional fireworks from 120dB to 90dB.
- Limit sale of consumer fireworks to Category F1 and F2, and only to specialised/licensed shops.
- Designate ‘firework free zones’ in areas where fireworks are likely to have a greater impact on animals, the environment and vulnerable peoples.
- When firework free zones are in place, local councils should organise their own alternative displays.
- Given the economic potential of alternatives, and given the benefits to wildlife and the environment, the Government should review regulations surrounding alternatives to fireworks, such as drone displays.
To view the full Government response and support the petition click here. To support the RSPCA call click here.
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