RSPCA Assured offers bonfire night advice to farmers

With an estimated 6.1 million households (22%) in England and Wales expected to set off fireworks this season, according to an RSPCA survey, farmers are being offered advice on how best to protect their animals.

Loud bangs and flashing lights from fireworks displays can cause panic and injuries in livestock and poultry, with frightened hens and chickens, for example, huddling together and potentially smothering other birds.

Both the RSPCA and RSPCA Assured are therefore asking the public to be “Kind Sparks” and consider the impact of firework displays on animals.

See also: Farmer Focus: Are fireworks and bonfires worth the hassle?

Charlotte Thomas, regional assessment manager at RSPCA Assured, said: “Every year, farmed animals are frightened by fireworks – despite it being illegal to light fireworks near fields and barns where livestock are kept.

“So, we are offering advice to farmers and the public to help reduce the fear and stress fireworks cause.”

See the effect fireworks have on these sheep in a video by RSPCA Assured

To keep animals calm and maintain their welfare, farmers are encouraged to: 

• Speak to neighbours and the community, warning them about livestock on the land and the impact of fireworks. Ask whether they plan fireworks displays and share any concerns.
• Check and reinforce fencing and enclosures where necessary, in case animals panic and try to escape.
• Play low, soothing music to livestock for limited periods to mask the noise.
• Check livestock regularly for signs of distress, stay close by, and monitor them carefully so you can intervene if needed.
• Where possible, arrange for an experienced stockperson (who your animals are familiar with) to stay with them when fireworks are going off.
• After local firework displays, check fields for any firework debris that could be dangerous to your animals.

Tougher regulation

The RSPCA is also campaigning for stronger firework legislation, including reducing the noise level of all traditional fireworks from 120dB to 90dB and designating “firework-free zones” in areas where fireworks are likely to have a greater impact on animals, the environment, and vulnerable people.

People can support the campaign by contacting their local council and MP to advocate for implementation of these recommendations.

Relaxing music

Those who want to play relaxing music to their farm animals can tune into Classic FM’s programme Pet Classics, an annual radio show designed to help owners and farm animals stay calm during the firework season.

The show is broadcast on Wednesday 5 November, 5pm to 9pm, hosted by Dan Walker, with a second programme on Saturday 8 November, 5pm to 9pm, hosted by Charlotte Hawkins.