'Have a happy but lantern-free Bonfire': Unions call on public to be considerate during firework season

Public urged to take into consideration impact of fireworks on livestock
Public urged to take into consideration impact of fireworks on livestock

It's that time of year again, fireworks will soon light up the night sky as Bonfire Night looms.

But it is often a time of anxiety and stress some.

Many farmers and rural organisations are calling on the public to have a happy – but lantern-free and considerate – bonfire night this November.

Speaking ahead of bonfires and fireworks being lit around the country on 5 November, the UK farming unions would welcome dangerous sky lanterns, known also as Chinese lanterns, being banned for both personal use, and from being part of any display.

Unions have written to councils across the UK asking for a ban on sky lanterns
Unions have written to councils across the UK asking for a ban on sky lanterns

The unions are also urging those setting off fireworks to give some consideration to any livestock that may be in fields or sheds nearby.

The lanterns, which are constructed from paper with a wire or wooden frame and contain a lighted candle, are a proven fire risk and can be a danger to animals.

They pose a fire hazard to stacks of hay and straw, woodland and farm buildings. If they land within crops grown to feed livestock, the frames risk being ingested causing great harm to livestock.

29 councils in England, 8 councils in Scotland, 13 councils in Wales and 2 in Northern Ireland have already banned sky lanterns.

Enjoy - but be considerate

NFU Scotland’s Animal Health and Welfare Policy Manager, Penny Johnston said: “Bonfire night and fireworks are a long established part of celebrations at this time of year.

“We believe people can have a great evening while taking the needs of those who live and work in the countryside into consideration.

“Sky lanterns are seemingly innocent devices, and are beautiful to look at, but they can cause untold damage as there is no control over where these burning structures of paper, metal and wood decide to land.

“Across the UK, there have been many reports now of fires started by lanterns and harm to the health of livestock when lanterns have landed in farmers’ fields and been eaten.

“There is a further risk to stock when grass is cut and ensiled for winter feed, and the wire is chopped up and subsequently contained in hay or silage.

“We applaud the action already taken against sky lanterns by eight local authorities in Scotland and we urge other councils to take their responsibilities as seriously. We also ask members of the public to avoid the use of lanterns, and to understand the risks that these can pose.

“Given the noise and bright lights, it is unsurprising that each bonfire night also brings a few reports of cattle, sheep, horses and dogs being scared and traumatised when fireworks are set off irresponsibly.

“Although winter is approaching, the fantastic autumn weather means that many livestock can still be found in the fields around the UK's cities, towns and villages.

“Taking the time to inform their keepers of any planned or private firework displays may prevent any unnecessary suffering for animals.

“Similarly, where livestock have been housed for the winter in sheds that are close to public places, consideration should be given to the wellbeing of the animals before any fireworks are set off nearby.

“Taking the time to consider the impact of any display – planned or otherwise – will ensure that all can enjoy this traditional, colourful but noisy time of year,” concluded Miss Johnston.