Our little dog, like so many pets and wild animals, is traumatised by the loud bangs of fireworks. The horrendous display of light and sound sends him into a dreadful state of high stress, and as pet owners, it breaks our hearts to see him suffer. But it's not just our pets. War veterans with PTSD, people living with autism, and countless animals in the wild find these bangs terrifying.

Traditionally, fireworks rose and fell with occasions like New Year's Eve or Guy Fawkes Night, causing temporary distress. Unfortunately, these displays are now a year-round occurrence, causing constant disruption and fear in our communities. While some consider the loud bangs an essential part of the experience, a great many find the noise disturbing and stressful.

According to a study by the RSPCA, 45% of dogs in the UK show signs of fear when they hear fireworks. This doesn't even include other animals such as cats, horses, or wildlife who are also traumatized by the unexpected and deafening sounds. The survey also revealed that 21% of people with Autism Spectrum Disorder reported they or the person they were responding for had to leave public events due to loud fireworks.

We propose the introduction of silent fireworks, offering a visually stunning display without the unnecessary noise pollution and distress caused by the traditional ones. Italian town Collecchio set a great example in 2015, enacting legislation enforcing the use of silent fireworks to minimise the torment inflicted upon animals.

It's essential to keep celebrating tradition and occasion but not at the expense of the vulnerable in society, human or animal alike. Please join us in demanding a law to Ban The Bang, alleviating fear and discomfort for animals and people suffering from sound sensitivity. It's a small change with a significant impact. Please, sign this petition today.