As Bonfire Night approaches, leading animal welfare charities Redwings Horse Sanctuary and the RSPCA are intensifying calls for stricter fireworks regulations due to the severe distress and harm loud fireworks cause to horses and other animals across the UK. Redwings’ petition to reduce the maximum permitted firework noise from 120 to 90 decibels has surpassed 100,000 signatures, triggering Parliamentary consideration. Between 2010 and 2024, fireworks caused nearly 1,500 horse-related incidents, including 49 deaths, with many animals suffering severe anxiety and injury. Both charities report heartbreaking stories of animals harmed or killed by fireworks and are urging the public to support legislative changes to reduce noise, restrict sales, create firework-free zones, and encourage alternative displays.

The RSPCA and Redwings are also providing resources to help animal owners protect their pets during fireworks season, including special radio programs and detailed guidance. They advocate for a comprehensive approach involving noise reduction, sales restrictions, designated safe zones, and limited sale periods to minimize animal suffering. With a cross-charity coalition engaging Parliament and public support growing, there is cautious optimism that meaningful reforms to fireworks laws will soon be enacted to better safeguard animals while respecting cultural traditions.