Festive fireworks over, now for a Luton MP's Private Member's Bill to be brought forward
The proposed legislation aims to better regulate them
The New Year is bringing to the table a range of proposed legislations, which includes one by a Luton MP, aimed at better regulating the sale of fireworks.
Sarah Owen, MP for Luton North, is advocating for changes to UK fireworks legislation, focusing on public safety, noise reduction, and limiting access to high-decibel fireworks.
Her outlined proposal includes reducing the maximum noise level of fireworks available for public purchase to 90 decibels, down from the current 120 decibels.
The Private Members' Bill is already backed by several Members of Parliament across different parties, as well as receiving strong support from fellow Luton MP, for Luton South and South Bedfordshire, Rachel Hopkins.
Speaking to Greatest Hits Radio, she said: "I'm very supportive of Sarah Owen MP's Private Members' Bill which is a piece of legislation to restrict the sale of some fireworks, the sort of ones that are considered a medium hazard.
"I was talking to the Redwings Sanctuary and they say that many horses get shocked and spooked by the firework noises and they can sometimes bolt and injure themselves. It's one of those impacts that some people in a town may not appreciate but it's also why there's such widespread support for some of those measures in the Bill."
While individual safety remains a concern, the Bill aims to better protect wildlife, pets, and farm animals, often falling victim to fireworks.
Ms Hopkins added: "I know I've also spoken to the RSPCA and the Dogs Trust who also recognise that so many pets are impacted. I have a rescue dog called Maisie and she's absolutely petrified of the loud noises of fireworks, I've never seen a dog shake so much.
"I spoke to somebody who has an assistance dog because they are a veteran and they live with PTSD, and the assistance dog is a real support for them, but they say that at this time of year they can't go out when it's dark in case people let the fireworks off.
"Some of these have daily impacts and again that's why I think with the new law restricting the noise level of fireworks, not necessarily their prettiness, I mean I think they're wonderful things in that respect, but some of the loud bangs are just too much."
The Second Reading of the Bill is expected in two weeks' time, on January 17.