Redwings Horse Sanctuary urges public to participate in UK government fireworks consultation
The charity seeks tougher noise limits to protect animals from distress
The UK government has launched a public consultation aimed at tightening fireworks regulations, and Norfolk's Redwings Horse Sanctuary is encouraging the public to get involved.
The charity is advocating for stricter noise limits on consumer fireworks to safeguard horses and pets from distress and potential injury.
Helen Whiteleg, campaigns manager at Redwings Horse Sanctuary, explained the charity's concerns:
“The loud noises are the biggest risk factor to not only horses, obviously we're an equine charity, but to many other animals and in fact vulnerable people as well."
Redwings has been actively campaigning for over two years, gathering support through a petition specifically asking for reduced noise levels.
Whiteleg shared the experiences of horse owners and the impact that loud fireworks can have:
“We know that horses don’t know what fireworks are. They just know that there's this incredibly loud sound that they weren’t expecting. And as a flight animal, their instinct is to run first, ask questions later, basically."
Redwings has faced the heartbreaking loss of three rescued horses due to distress caused by firework displays.
"We know on both those occasions it was very big loud displays that upset groups of horses," Whiteleg said.
She emphasised the need for change and expressed hope for progress given the ongoing efforts and government consultation:
“I think the government is finally listening to that sheer groundswell of support and hearing the frustration not only from the public but from backbench MPs as well that there hasn't been progress on this issue yet."
Redwings aims to achieve a balance that allows traditional firework celebrations while reducing the negative impact on animals, without seeking a total ban on fireworks.