Fireworks Forewarned is Forearmed

 

We're fast approaching that time of year that almost all animal owners dread, the time of year when fireworks go off. 

In the UK November 5th, Guy Fawkes / Bonfire Night was the traditional time for fireworks, once a year. Most of us knew if our neighbours were going to light a few fireworks or when and where an organized display was taking place. We could make arrangements to keep our animals safe.

Over the years all that has changed, there will be countless nights, and days, between now and around mid January when fireworks will be going off in many of our neighbourhoods. without warning. Not to mention the number of random parties throughout the year, birthdays etc, when people use fireworks. These days many users of fireworks don't think to warn their neighbour to eg keep the cat in.

"Firework season" makes life a misery for many, it isn't just the animals that are frightened there are also numerous people who are scared of those loud bangs.

For years now the UK Government has been petitioned to bring in legislation to restrict the sale of fireworks. The Firework Campaign UK has been active since 2013, their website is the place to access information, petitions to sign and how to report nuisance fireworks.

According to Google AI the following UK organizations are also advocating for stricter firework legislation:

Dogs Trust, Blue Cross, Battersea Dogs and Cats Home, Cats Protection, The Kennel Club, BVA, Redwings Horse Sanctuary, Help for Heroes, PTSD UK, Children's Burns Trust, Association for Firework Legislation Reform.

And that isn't a complete list.

The BHS put together this checklist for horse owners over a decade ago, it contains lots of good advice starting with the first point about finding out what's going on, after all forewarned is forearmed:

Look at local press and local shops’ notice boards and listen to the radio to find out where the displays will be in your area.

• Wherever possible, tell neighbours and local firework display organisers that there are horses nearby, so they can ensure fireworks are set off in the opposite direction and well away from them.
  
• Decide whether to stable your horse or leave it in the field. It is sensible to keep your horse in its familiar environment, in its normal routine, with any companions to make it feel secure. If it is usually stabled, keep it stabled. If it is normally out in the field, keep it there as long as it is safe, secure and not close to the firework display area.
  
• If stabled, check thoroughly for anything that could cause potential injury such as protruding nails and string.
  
• If your horse is to stay in the field, check that fencing is not broken and that there are no foreign objects lying around.
  
• Ensure that you, or someone experienced, stays with your horse if you know that fireworks are being set off.
  
• If it is absolutely necessary for you to leave your horse in the care of another person during a firework display, then be sure to leave clear instructions and contact details for both you and your vet should any problems arise.
  
• If you know your animal will be stressed, talk to your vet about sedation, or perhaps consider moving your horse for the night.
  
• Playing music on a radio positioned outside the stable can often mask sudden noise, distract attention and be soothing.
  
• Try to remain calm yourself and keep positive, as horses will sense unease in a person and this may make things worse if the horse is startled.
  
• It may seem common sense but be aware of your own safety; a startled horse can be dangerous.
• Whatever you do – don’t risk riding when you think fireworks might be set off.
  
• Check if there will be a bonfire near your yard. If there is, make sure you have an emergency fire procedure in place. If you have any doubts, talk to your local fire safety officer.
  
• Make sure that you have adequate third party liability insurance. If your horse is frightened and escapes, causing an accident, then you could be held liable for compensation.