Norfolk horse sanctuary to discuss fireworks petition with MPs
It's been signed by well over 125 thousand people, so far
Bosses at a local horse sanctuary tell us they'll be meeting with MPs next week to discuss their petition.
It's want to see the maximum noise level for commercial fireworks be reduced and has got over 125 thousand signatures, so far.
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
"A frightened horse is a dangerous horse"
Helen Whitelegg is from Redwings Sanctuary:
"A frightened horse is a dangerous horse not only to itself, but also to other nearby animals and people as well.
"Unfortunately we have lost three horses, since our creation, in incidents related to fireworks being let off close by.
"There's actually a really considerable cost in terms of both staff time and extra resource to try and get us through this period.
"By simply dropping that noise-level one of the biggest triggers for animal distress is removed.
"We're really looking forward to having the chance to contribute the topic being debated in Parliament, hopefully.
"The Government's response has focussed on their education campaign rather than focussing on tighter regulation, which is just the start of what's needed.
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".