'More confident than ever' on firework changes- Norfolk charity
Redwings Sanctuary met with MPs this week to discuss their petition to reduce the maximum noise levels of publicly sold fireworks
Bosses at a local horse sanctuary says they're more confident than ever that firework regulations will be changed.
It follows Redwings Sanctuary meeting with nearly 90 MPs about their petition to reduce the maximum noise level for commercial fireworks.
Research from the group has found that:
• 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 know that we're very far from being alone on this"
Helen Whitelegg is from the group and told us how they've been affected by these pyrotechnics:
"We've lost three rescue ponies of our own residents, due to fireworks being let off. We know that we're very far from being alone on this.
"We've seen more cases on social media of horses dying due to fireworks.
"We think it's very unlikely that we're not going to be given the opportunity to have this debated in Parliament.
"So it's now just a question of waiting to see when that debate might be. Many MPs that we've spoken to have said that they would be keen to show their support for change.
What have Ministers said on this?
"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.
"To ensure people continue to use fireworks in a safe and considerate manner, the Government has launched a fireworks campaign for this fireworks season to provide guidance on minimising the impacts of fireworks on animal welfare and encouraging responsible use. Lower noise fireworks are promoted in the campaign alongside considerate use.
"This supplements existing guidance from Government and other organisations that is available to help people to use fireworks safely and appropriately. The campaign also includes new guidance for those running community fireworks events, and social media posts that emphasise the risks from the misuse of fireworks".