RSPCA warning as more private firework displays are forecast
Almost one in five of us in Bucks Beds and Herts are likely to keep Bonfire Night at home
The RSPCA are urging people in Buckinghamshire, Bedfordshire and Hertfordshire to let their neighbours know if they're bringing bonfire night to their back garden.
The animal welfare charity have unveiled a map which will allow users to see the estimated number of cats and dogs in their area who could be impacted by a local garden firework display.
20% of people in the South East, and 19% of people in the East of England are planning to have a private firework display at home or with family and friends to mark Bonfire Night.
75% in the South East say they always alert neighbours about parties with fireworks, with 21% forgetting to pre-warn them - increasing the risk for animals. In the East of England 73% remember and 25% of people forget.
63% of people in both regions say they’re noticing more firework displays taking place in their area outside of traditional dates like Bonfire Night, Diwali and New Year each
It's as with councils cutting back on public displays, more of us are forecast to be planning a Bonfire Night event at home.
The map, created by the RSPCA, also shows the decibel level at which animals would hear the fireworks based on their proximity to the display.
A campaign urges us to be "Kind Sparks", talk to our neighbours and think about the impact on animals based locally to us, as fireworks go on sale in the shops.
David Bowles, Head of Public Affairs at the RSPCA, says: “This firework season we’re calling on the nation to remember their neighbours – including pets, wildlife and farmed animals – who find fireworks distressing because of the impact it has on their animals.
“We don’t want people to feel bad about fireworks, but there are simple changes anyone can make to reduce the impact displays have on their neighbours and animals, and ensure they're enjoying the fun responsibly.
“By arming people with information and guidance we hope to build greater compassion and actions that benefit people and animals.
“As part of our Kind Sparks campaign, we hope to encourage actions which benefit both people and animals.”