The UK Government has launched a public consultation on the future regulation of fireworks and pyrotechnics, seeking views on proposals that could help reduce the impact of fireworks on animals, vulnerable people and local communities.
The consultation, led by the Department for Business and Trade, follows growing public concern over the use of fireworks, reflected in increasing numbers of complaints, parliamentary debates and public petitions calling for tighter controls.
While fireworks remain an important part of many cultural celebrations and public events, the Government says it wants to find a better balance between allowing people to enjoy them and reducing the distress and harm they can cause.
The consultation forms part of the Government’s Safer Streets Mission, which aims to tackle anti-social behaviour and improve community wellbeing.
Proposed changes
The Government is seeking views on three key proposals:
- Restricting the sale of the loudest fireworks so they are only available to professional users.
- Expanding the list of banned pyrotechnic products where they are considered to pose unacceptable risks.
- Reviewing the current classifications for lower-risk fireworks and pyrotechnic products to ensure they better reflect the level of risk associated with each product.
The consultation is intended to gather evidence before any regulatory changes are made, helping to minimise unintended consequences while improving public safety and animal welfare.
A long-standing animal welfare issue
For many animal welfare organisations, the consultation represents an important opportunity to address concerns that have been raised for years about the effects of fireworks on animals.
Loud, sudden and unpredictable fireworks are known to cause fear and stress in many companion animals, horses, livestock and wildlife. Signs of distress can include panic, attempts to flee, injury, elevated heart rate, digestive disturbances and longer-term behavioural changes.
Among the organisations campaigning for change has been Redwings Horse Sanctuary, which has consistently highlighted the impact of fireworks on horses and other animals. The charity has supported calls for tighter regulation, including restrictions on the sale of high-noise fireworks and greater public awareness of the risks fireworks can pose to equines.
Redwings has also encouraged organisers and members of the public to notify nearby horse owners before planned displays wherever possible, allowing owners to take steps to reduce the risk of injury or distress.
Animal welfare charities have long argued that while fireworks can be enjoyed responsibly, improved regulation and consideration for nearby animals could significantly reduce avoidable welfare issues.
Have your say
The Government is encouraging members of the public, industry representatives, animal welfare organisations and other stakeholders to submit their views before any decisions are made.
The consultation will help shape future policy on fireworks and pyrotechnic products across the UK and could lead to changes aimed at improving safety while preserving the use of fireworks for organised celebrations.
Animalweb welcomes this opportunity to review the current regulations and encourages anyone with experience of the impact of fireworks on animals to consider responding to the consultation.
