Should fireworks shows be banned? asks GSPCA

More than thirty displays have been announced to the United States for Tuesday, November 5 alone, and the evenings surrounding the main day were also filled with fireworks.

GSPCA manager Steve Byrne said the shelter saw more private fireworks events over a longer period of time this year than in previous years.

It has launched a fireworks survey to assess public opinion and feedback on these events as ‘good or bad’.

‘At the GSPCA we have had problems helping some animals and even at the shelter we have seen people in our care upset and distressed.’

Fireworks can cause fear and distress in many animals due to the sudden, loud noises. RSPCA figures show that almost half of all dogs show fear when they hear fireworks.

Animals can also be injured if they try to run away or hide from the noise.

‘This year we have been involved in and heard of a number of cases that have resulted in lost or distressed animals, owners and members of the public as a result of the number of events, and as such we have launched a survey to gauge the feelings of islanders Mr Byrne said. .

‘Fortunately we have not yet seen any animals that have been injured and had to be rescued because of fireworks.

‘Each fireworks period we are aware of, we promote safety messages to help prevent stress on owners’ animals and to prevent wildlife from being injured.

It is nice to see that fortunately we no longer see as many incidents as in the past.’

Guernsey has strict rules around fireworks. They may only be sold through a licensed premises to persons over 20 years of age in the week leading up to November 5.

“There are now only two fireworks vendors, only releasing them days before November 5, and the United States fireworks registration and alert page has certainly helped islanders know in advance when events are happening and where they are happening,” said Mr Byrne.

But while this allows pet owners to prepare, wild animals cannot.

Mr Byrne said the Shelter is urging islanders to attend organized events and use silent fireworks to reduce the stress and disruption they can cause to animals and people.

The new survey asks what people think about local fireworks laws, whether pets are concerned during displays, whether they have seen wildlife suffer and whether all fireworks shows should be restricted or banned.

n The survey can be completed at www.surveymonkey.com/r/LH7678N.

n There is one private screening in Castel tonight, and then four exhibitions on Friday evening. Three of these are private, but the fourth is the La Houguette School public exhibition event, which takes place from 5 p.m.