January 15, 2020 2.21 pm This story is over 49 months old

Lincoln councillors call for ‘quieter firework’ rules

A motion will be put to city council

City of Lincoln councillors will call for “quieter firework” rules amid concerns that displays cause fear and distress for animals.

A motion before the council’s full council meeting will propose that public displays in the city boundary should be advertised in advance in order for residents to take precaution.

It follows concern that fireworks are a common cause of distress for household pets, such as dogs and cats, and wildlife and livestock.

The motion will call on the council promote a public awareness campaign about the impact of fireworks on animal welfare and vulnerable people.

Photo: Emily Norton

It will also ask the authority to write to the government to urge them to introduce legislation to limit the maximum noise level of fireworks to 90dB for those sold to the public for private displays.

It will say: “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.”

The motion will also call for local firework suppliers to be encouraged to stock “quieter fireworks” for public displays.

City councillors will discuss and vote on the motion at a meeting of the full council on January 21.

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