The RSPCA has launched a new campaign urging people to become “Kind Sparks” this fireworks season – as new research shows half of pet-owners say Bonfire Night is one of the most stressful days of the year.
The animal welfare charity has also launched an interactive map which allows users to see the estimated number of cats and dogs in their area who could be impacted by a local garden firework display. The map also shows the decibel level at which animals would hear the fireworks based on their proximity to the display.
As many as 14 million2 Brits are planning to have private displays at home or with family and friends to mark Bonfire Night – while a further 22 million3 are expected to attend public firework events.
Research commissioned by the RSPCA found that more than half (55%) of the UK’s pet-owners dread the fireworks season, and 43% admit they have to change their lifestyle due to unexpected fireworks nearby.
And while 71% of people surveyed always alert neighbours about parties with fireworks, nearly a quarter (24%) forget to pre-warn them – increasing the risk for animals.
According to the findings many pet owners and farmers struggle to speak up for fear of creating a divide in their area. Two in five (40%) said they felt awkward saying anything while a third (31%) fear being seen as a killjoy. One in five (20%) admitted they don’t know how to approach the conversation, with 30% feeling isolated.
In response, the RSPCA’s Kind Sparks campaign encourages everyone to make a small change to reduce the impact of fireworks on pets, livestock and wildlife – and ensure fireworks can be enjoyed more responsibly.
The RSPCA says firework displays don’t have to create ‘us and them’ feelings or divides within communities. In readiness the charity has:
- Launched the Kind Sparks guide to build greater understanding of the issue, with practical tips and advice for people planning to host a private display or attend a public firework event to help them minimise the impact on their surrounding area – from attending organised events only, to using low-noise fireworks.
- Created an interactive map that allows anyone to see the number of cats and dogs that would be impacted by them having a firework display in their garden, as well as the decibel level at which the animals would hear the fireworks depending on their proximity. Measuring between 150 and 175 decibels, fireworks are louder than many planes at take-off (about 140 decibels). Human ears are damaged at a mere 85 decibels, but animals are known to have more sensitive hearing than humans in both frequency and volume.
Chris Sherwood, Chief Executive of the RSPCA, said: “This firework season we’re calling on the nation to remember their neighbours – including pets, wildlife and farmed animals – who find fireworks distressing because of the impact it has on their animals.
“We don’t want people to feel bad about fireworks, but there are simple changes anyone can make to reduce the impact displays have on their neighbours and animals and ensure they’re enjoying the fun responsibly.
“By arming people with information and guidance we hope to build greater compassion and actions that benefit people and animals. As part of our Kind Sparks campaign, we hope to encourage actions which benefit both people and animals.”
Jess Baker, a psychologist and coach, supporting the campaign and who features in the Kind Sparks Guide, said: “Being able to communicate clearly with others is probably the most underestimated human ability. If you’re planning to host a fireworks party this winter don’t avoid the topic or wait until the last minute.
Opening up to neighbours can feel hard sometimes, but ultimately it alleviates stress on both sides – and can often improve relations in the long term.
Remember we’re all human and if we are honest and show compassion to one another, no one has to miss out.”
To read the Kind Sparks guide and try out the decibel map visit www.rspca.org.uk/getinvolved/campaign/fireworks
