Bang out of order! MP seeks quiet fireworks to protect anxious pets

By CLAIRE ELLICOTT

Published: | Updated:

A Labour MP is campaigning to ban fireworks louder than a hairdryer to prevent stress to cats and dogs.

Luton North MP Sarah Owen pointed to the disruptive effect of fireworks on people trying to sleep, as well as the anxiety they cause for animals.

She introduced proposed legislation to the House of Commons yesterday through a Private Members’ Bill – which rarely become law. Ms Owen said: ‘Change to firework law is long overdue. 

'Though better enforcement of existing law is needed, it is not right that extremely loud rockets and firework fountains can be purchased all year round by the public.

Sarah Owen pointed to the disruptive effect of fireworks on people and animals

Sarah Owen pointed to the disruptive effect of fireworks on people and animals

Fireworks light up the sky over the London Eye in central London on New Year's Eve 2023-24

Fireworks light up the sky over the London Eye in central London on New Year's Eve 2023-24

‘I have received hundreds of letters and emails from concerned residents, frankly fed up of having their sleep and lives endlessly disrupted. 

'Loud fireworks are also a huge cause of stress for pets, and can be distressing for people with PTSD, bringing back painful or traumatic memories. It’s time to tighten the rules.

‘I look forward to working with animal welfare and veterans charities, as well as MPs from across Parliament, in getting this crucial change through.’

Her Bill aims to limit the noise level of all fireworks sold to the public to 90 decibels, judged by experts to be equivalent to the sound of a hairdryer or lawnmower.

Currently, fireworks bought in shops must not exceed 120 decibels.

She also wants to ban sales to the public, online or in stores, of some of the most powerful fireworks. 

The Bill would also only allow for the sale of fireworks from licensed shops all year round.

There are currently periods around Guy Fawkes night, New Year’s Eve, Chinese New Year and Diwali when fireworks can be sold from non-specialist shops such as supermarkets.

Labour

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