RSPCA expresses concern over DIY firework displays

The RSPCA has expressed its concern over the increase in DIY home events this fireworks season, urging those planning home displays to consider animals in their local area. 

It follows reports that major displays in Leeds, Manchester, Liverpool and Cardiff among others have been reportedly cancelled due to spiralling costs meaning locals are likely to resort to home displays to celebrate 5 November.

Last year the RSPCA started its first online reporting form for members of the public about the impact of fireworks on their animals – receiving 11,785 responses in its first year showing this is a real problem for animals across the country.

Carrie Stones, RSPCA campaigns manager, said: “We fear that there will now be lots of little displays taking place over weeks and weeks, spreading out fireworks noise and causing prolonged distress for animals across a larger area.

“We’d urge people to be considerate and keep neighbours with animals, including those with nearby horses and other livestock, informed of plans well in advance so they can make preparations to reduce the stress to their animals.

“Equally lower-noise fireworks can make such a difference to make displays safer for everybody.”

New statistics for this year have shown 63% of animal owners reported that their pet appeared distressed during firework season.

The RSPCA has been running its #BangOutOfOrder campaign supporting more controls over fireworks displays. The charity is calling for the UK Government to introduce tighter controls and regulations around the sale and use of fireworks in a bid to help both animals and people who suffer with fireworks phobias and noise aversion; while urging local authorities to introduce localised restrictions too.  

Read the most recent Viewpoint on the issue here.