Retailers selling fireworks across Sefton could be urged to only stock ‘quieter’ versions for public displays.
An awareness campaign could also be launched alerting people to the impact of fireworks on pets, livestock and vulnerable people while the Government may be asked to consider legislation limiting fireworks noise.
The calls will be made by Councillor Janet Grace at the full Sefton Council meeting taking place this Thursday (21 January), who is concerned that the pyrotechnics can be “a source of fear and distress for many animals.”
Cllr Grace, a Labour councillor for Victoria Ward in Crosby, said: “Fireworks are used by people throughout the year to mark different events.
“While they can bring much enjoyment to some people, they can cause significant problems and fear for other people and animals.
“They can be a source of fear and distress for many animals including pet animals, farm livestock and wildlife.
“Animals affected not only suffer psychological distress but can also cause themselves injuries – sometimes very serious ones – as they attempt to run away or hide from the noise.”
Cllr Grace is calling on Sefton Council to resolve to:
1) to encourage all public firework displays within the Sefton Council boundaries to be advertised in advance of the event, allowing residents to take precautions for their animals and vulnerable people
2) to actively promote a public awareness campaign about the impact of fireworks on animal welfare and vulnerable people – including the precautions that can be taken to mitigate risks
3) to write to the UK Government urging them to introduce legislation to limit the maximum noise level of fireworks to 90dB for those sold to the public for private displays
4) to encourage local suppliers of fireworks to stock ‘quieter’ fireworks for public display.
The debate will take place at the full Sefton Council meeting on Thursday 21 January.
Do you have any stories for Stand Up For Southport? Please message Andrew Brown via Facebook here or email me at: mediaandrewbrown@gmail.com
