Change firework laws to protect animals

#BangOutOfOrder. Thousands of pets, horses and livestock are affected by fireworks. Many hurt themselves in reaction to the noise and flashes or, in the worst cases, it can cause death.

Current laws don't work for private displays

Organised local events will generally receive prior notice through advertising and word of mouth. The timings for these events are also arranged within a timeframe to attract families.

Private displays are much more unpredictable and harder to control. It becomes impossible for neighbours to prepare their pets, horses and livestock properly.

64% were animals impacted by private at-home backyard displays
92% didn't have prior notice of fireworks displays nearby
14% were animals in distress as a result of antisocial behaviour

Calm your pet during firework nights with Classic FM

69% of UK adults with a pet take at least one measure to help relax or prepare their animal for fireworks season.

Playing relaxing music is the most common. It shows why our partnership with Classic FM's pet classics is such a massive hit.

Listen to pet classics 5pm to 9pm, 4-5 November.

Firework regulation changes we're asking for

We want to see fireworks regulations changed to protect our pets, wildlife and farm animals.

We'd like to see the UK Government follow Scotland's lead and change laws for the following:

Fireworks should only be sold and let off for Bonfire Night specifically from October 29 to November 5, with similar time limitations for other traditional dates. Meaning a much shorter timespan than currently.
We want to follow in the footsteps of countries that have successfully used firework control zones to protect vulnerable individuals and animals.

Fireworks must be entirely prohibited near:
- horses' habitats
- sensitive wildlife areas
- farms
- animal centres
- zoos
The maximum permitted noise level for public sale of fireworks must be reduced from 120dB to 90dB, in line with international standards, to mitigate noise pollution and protect animals and individuals.

We believe that by introducing these measures, we can establish effective legislation that prioritises the safety and well-being of animals and vulnerable people. We believe that responsible enjoyment is possible for all.

Have your animals been affected by fireworks?

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Be a firework friendly neighbour for animals

Fireworks bring joy to many. But for your neighbours with pets, horses or livestock, it can be a time of intense stress. At the RSPCA, we want to inspire everyone to create a better world for every animal. That’s why we’re calling on every one across the nation to pledge to make one change and #BeAKindSpark this season.

The downside of firework displays

Firework displays are loved by many, with over a quarter of Brits planning on setting off fireworks in their own gardens. And yet, a huge 64% of animals are negatively impacted by private displays. In 2023 alone, we received 1200 responses to our impact reporting survey detailing the impact of fireworks on animals experiencing fear and stress.

But it not just animals who struggle. For humans, there can be a very real cost too. For your neighbours with pets and animals, and for animal and wildlife lovers in general, the stress and anxiety around firework season can build resentment. Many feel isolated or that their concerns are not welcomed. You only need to visit your local online forum to see how passionately people care about the issue. And yet, many are anxious to discuss it with people in their community.

How to talk to your neighbours

Pet and livestock owners

55% say they dread fireworks season because of the impact fireworks have on their animals and local wildlife.

30% feel isolated by their views on fireworks.

40% feel awkward discussing their firework concerns with their neighbours and others in the community.

Make one change

85% of people say they want to be a good neighbour to everyone in the community including local wildlife. And yet, 50% are caught in the tricky dilemma of loving firework season while knowing it upsets many pet owners in their community. If that’s you, what changes can you make?

Go public

If you want to get your firework fix, the best option is to attend a public display rather than having one in your own garden. This will help remove some of the unpredictability of private displays. Plus, it’s a perfect opportunity to get together with your community.

Silent discos? Why not silent displays?

In recent years, there has been a rise in the popularity of silent or low noise displays, after concerns over animal welfare. Instead of fireworks, silent alternatives can include light displays, projections or drones displays–giving all of the atmosphere without the bang.

Silent and low noise events

Things to watch out for with public displays

Host the display away from livestock

Choose a display that’s hosted away from livestock, horses and land used to rear or keep animals.

Don’t bring your pets to displays

Leave your pets at home–loud noises and crowds can cause them stress and anxiety.

Things to watch out for with public displays

Host the display away from livestock

Choose a display that’s hosted away from livestock, horses and land used to rear or keep animals.

Don’t bring your pets to displays

Leave your pets at home–loud noises and crowds can cause them stress and anxiety.

Do private right

Over a quarter of Brits are planning on having a display in their own gardens. Current firework regulations don’t apply to private displays, making them more unpredictable and harder to control.

We’re campaigning to see these laws reformed to protect our pets, wildlife and farm animals. But until there are laws in place, you can still take your own steps to prepare neighbours and protect their animals.

Inform your neighbours

Let your neighbours know about your plans to set off fireworks, giving them enough time to prepare and make necessary arrangements. You can do this through WhatsApp groups, a note, or a quick chat in person.

Stick to tradition

Stick to the traditional dates (Diwali, Bonfire Night, New Year’s Eve and Chinese New Year). This helps eliminate surprise.

Finish early

Pick a good time for your display. Avoiding late hours is more considerate to both animals and vulnerable people. And keep it short and sweet.

Use low noise fireworks

There are lots of new quieter options such as Roman Candles, which still make a bang but without as big a flash. See below for information on the low-impact alternatives out there.

Have a silent display

Why not forget fireworks altogether and replace your bangers with a celebration of lights using options such as glow sticks or LED lanterns. Learn more about silent displays.

26%

of people are planning on having a private fireworks display

75%

WOULD USE FIREWORKS ALTERNATIVES IF A NEIGHBOUR WITH PETS ASKED

Everybody needs good neighbours

Good neighbours offer many benefits, from collaboration to shared celebrations. Humans naturally seek connection, and research shows that strong community ties improve mental health by lifting mood, reducing stress, and combating loneliness. People with strong social networks tend to be healthier and live longer. However, bad relationships can cause sleepless nights, severe stress, and debilitating depression.

Stories from firework concerned neighbours

Nora and Adina hope for a better future for their noise-sensitive pups

Nora and Adina, two mixed-breed dogs, struggle with severe noise sensitivity, especially during unexpected fireworks. Their owners, Melissa and Lee, create safe spaces, use calming sprays, and play classical music, but the dogs still experience intense fear. With a new baby, the challenge has grown, and the family hopes for animal-friendly fireworks and better event planning to reduce the stress on their pets.

Pam and Stuart’s rare breed of sheep suffered from extreme stress

Pam and Stuart care for fourteen rare breed sheep in Cheshire, eight of which are classified as 'at risk.' In 2023, a neighbor's fireworks display caused their sheep to panic, leading to a stampede. Chas, one of the sheep, was injured and required costly veterinary care. Despite attempts to discuss the issue, fireworks continued, straining relationships. Pam and Stuart sought help from the police and their MP but were disappointed by the lack of support.

A community united to improve fireworks for horses and livestock

In 2023, Boxted village in Colchester grew concerned about the impact of a local sports club's fireworks on their animals. Instead of demanding a cancellation, Rachel Kennedy led a campaign urging the club to use low-noise fireworks. Initially ignored, the community persisted, citing the Animal Welfare Act. Just before the event, the club agreed to switch to low-noise fireworks, leading to relief and empowerment for the community, proving the power of collective action.

Have a silent night

In recent years, quieter fireworks have become increasingly popular in the UK. And some councils have opted to use quiet fireworks for their displays. However, there are no truly silent fireworks. By their design, all fireworks come with a flash and a bang. But there is a rise of alternatives that can be just as enjoyable and awe-inspiring.

It’s important to state that even these alternatives can have negative impact on animals. Drones aren’t totally silent and laser and light shows still cause bright flashes. But on balance, they are better for animal welfare than traditional fireworks.

61% of people think alternatives to fireworks, such as lasers, drones, or silent/quiet fireworks, would be just as fun to watch as traditional fireworks.

Drone displays

Drones are the most commonly seen alternative to fireworks. In these displays, illuminated drones swoop and swarm in the night sky to make stunning patterns and images. Practically anything is possible with drones and the only limits are people’s imaginations.

Light shows

Laser and light shows are also popular. The experience is similar to a fireworks display, with a dedicated viewing area set up and then the lasers or LEDs light up the sky in stunning patterns.

How to tackle tricky chats

Good relationships with your neighbours are precious and worth protecting. But these relationships are also fragile. The smallest thing such as an overhanging branch, loud music, or fireworks event, can quickly break down what was once mutually beneficial for everyone. If you’re thinking about having fireworks at home this season, consider talking to your neighbours beforehand, especially those with pets and livestock owners in your community. This will give them time to prepare, and it can help you understand any concerns they may have.

Psychologist, Jess Baker has some simple advice on how to talk to your neighbours about your firework plans:

Consider the people around your home and make a list of who could be affected by your fireworks and then…
If you feel comfortable doing it, you could knock on a neighbour’s door. It might feel awkward at first but making eye contact is crucial for maintaining trust between you. And, unlike a text, a face-to-face conversation will help avoid misinterpretation.
Don’t wait until the evening that you plan to set off fireworks to let your neighbours know. Speak to them a couple of weeks in advance so that they have time to prepare and make arrangements for their pet if needed.
Don’t just let them know you’re planning to let off some fireworks, give them details on the time and how long you expect the fireworks to last. This will help them feel armed with all the information and build trust between you.
If your neighbour has hesitations about your plans, consider possible actions you could take to make them feel more at ease, for example setting them off earlier in the evening rather than late at night. Offer some suggestions and find a solution together.

Being able to communicate with others clearly is probably the most underestimated human ability. It is often referred to in my line of work as a ‘soft skill’. But actually, effective communication requires technical capability, as well as an open mind and a lot of patience.

Jess Baker, Psychologist