London Fire Brigade and RSPCA warn over firework risks
Organised displays are recommended over home use due to rising incidents and animal welfare concerns.
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The London Fire Brigade (LFB) and the RSPCA have issued joint warnings ahead of Bonfire Night, urging Londoners to avoid setting off fireworks at home. The organisations cited a rise in firework-related incidents and increasing concerns for animal welfare as reasons for the caution. Both bodies recommend attending organised public displays instead.
Rising Incident Numbers
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New figures from the LFB reveal that firework-related calls and incidents have more than doubled since 2018. On Bonfire Night 2025, the LFB control room handled 117 firework-related calls, representing a 30% increase compared to 2024. Overall, LFB control officers managed 809 emergency calls last year, which was a 20% rise from the previous year.
Fire investigation officer Peter Guppey stated that reducing home fireworks displays would be more considerate to neighbours and noted that organised events are often cheaper, safer, and more impressive. He also highlighted the benefit to animals, stating organised displays help create a calmer environment for pets and other wildlife.
Animal Welfare Concerns
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The RSPCA emphasised the distress loud firework explosions can cause to animals, potentially leading to serious health issues like heart attacks. The charity has been advocating for stricter regulations on public firework sales, including restrictions on the loudest types of fireworks.
Lorena Cacioni, an RSPCA vet nurse, noted that many pet owners are already concerned about how to protect their animals. She advised that choosing organised displays and preparing pets at home can significantly help reduce stress for animals during this period. The RSPCA recommends creating calm spaces for pets, masking sounds with music or television, and ensuring pets cannot escape if startled.
Government Review
A government consultation exploring the possibility of introducing tighter rules for the sale of fireworks has concluded. The outcomes of this consultation are currently under consideration by ministers.
For those who choose to use fireworks at home, the LFB advises informing neighbours beforehand, keeping pets indoors, and ensuring celebrations conclude by 11:00 PM. They also stress the importance of following manufacturer instructions carefully and using fireworks in a safe, spacious area.
Questions this report answers
+Why are the London Fire Brigade and RSPCA issuing warnings about fireworks?
They are warning about fireworks due to a significant rise in firework-related incidents and growing concerns for animal welfare. The LFB reported that firework calls have more than doubled since 2018, and loud explosions can cause animals severe distress.
+What are the statistics on firework incidents in London?
On Bonfire Night 2025, the London Fire Brigade responded to 117 firework-related calls, a 30% increase from 2024. Overall, LFB control officers handled 809 emergency calls last year, which was a 20% increase from the previous year.
+What is being done about the sale of fireworks?
A government consultation on potentially introducing tighter rules for the sale of fireworks to the public has recently concluded. The results of this consultation are now being considered by ministers.
+What advice is being given to pet owners?
The RSPCA advises pet owners to prepare calm areas for their animals, mask firework sounds with music or TV, and ensure pets cannot escape if startled. They also suggest playing with pets if they are willing and staying calm yourself.
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