Petition to Ban the Use of Fireworks in Private Gardens and Restrict Displays to Organised Events on 5th November

To: The UK Government and Local Authorities,

Subject: Restricting Firework Use to Organised Displays on Bonfire Night to Reduce Stress for Pets and Wildlife

We, the undersigned, call upon the UK Government to introduce legislation that restricts the use of fireworks to professionally organised displays on one designated night only—5th November, Bonfire Night. Fireworks should no longer be allowed in private gardens or outside licensed displays. This change is crucial to protect the wellbeing of household pets, local wildlife, and vulnerable individuals, who are all severely impacted by the extensive and unpredictable use of fireworks.

Reasons for this Petition:

 1. Animal Welfare: Domestic pets, particularly dogs and cats, suffer severe anxiety and distress due to the loud and sudden noises created by fireworks. This distress often leads to destructive behaviour, loss of appetite, and, in some cases, self-harm. Wildlife, such as birds, hedgehogs, and other small mammals, are similarly affected, with many being driven out of their natural habitats or even injured. 

2 Veterans awestness: Fireworks, while festive and celebratory, can be extremely triggering for veterans who suffer from post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). The loud, unpredictable explosions of fireworks closely resemble gunfire, bombs, and other combat sounds. These sensory cues can cause veterans to involuntarily relive traumatic experiences from their service, activating the “fight-or-flight” response.

When a firework goes off unexpectedly, veterans may experience flashbacks, anxiety, or panic attacks as their brains associate the noise with life-threatening situations. Symptoms of PTSD, such as hypervigilance, intrusive memories, and a heightened startle response, can worsen during firework displays. For some, even knowing fireworks are coming can still lead to physical symptoms like sweating, shaking, or increased heart rate, and can lead to isolation and withdrawal from social events.

Community awareness and mindfulness about the impact of fireworks can be beneficial. By promoting “quiet fireworks” displays, giving advance notice of fireworks, or supporting designated areas where veterans can avoid loud displays, communities can help create a more inclusive and understanding environment for those affected by PTSD.

 3.  Environmental Impact: Fireworks release harmful chemicals and pollutants into the environment, affecting air quality and contributing to litter in parks and natural areas. Organised displays could be regulated to ensure environmental standards are met, reducing the impact on our ecosystems.

 4.  Safety: Private firework displays are frequently a cause of accidents, injuries, and property damage. By restricting firework usage to organised displays, we can minimise these risks and ensure that public safety standards are upheld by trained professionals.

 5. Consideration for Vulnerable Groups: Fireworks can also be distressing for people whom have learning challenges like autism elderly individuals, those with PTSD, and young children. Restricting fireworks to a single, predictable night will help these groups prepare accordingly and reduce unnecessary stress.

By limiting firework use to organised displays on Bonfire Night alone, we can still uphold this traditional celebration while greatly reducing the negative effects on animals, people, and the environment.

We urge the government to take immediate action on this matter and to prioritise a safer, more responsible approach to firewors celebrations.

 

Signatories: M, Smith 

Maggie Smith