FIREWORK ADVICE from the GSPCA and calendar of displays
Submitted by Steve on 14:47, 20th Oct, 2016 |
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Every year we hear of firework related incidents involving animals and children. While fireworks may be exciting and pretty to look at and its fun to celebrate Guy Fawkes with a bang, we must put our safety and the safety of our pets and the local wildlife first. Over the coming weeks our Animal Welfare Team will be visiting islands’ schools in an effort to promote the Fire work code and advise people how to keep themselves and their animals safe.
Lorna Prince GSPCA Welfare Manager said "Fireworks this year are being sold between 28th October and 5th November."
"People are encouraged to have displays on the 4th and 5th November."
"People are also encouraged to finish their firework displays before 9am and to let neighbours know, especially those with animals or pets."
"At the GSPCA we would encourage going to an organised events which are safer and will help reduce the stress and upset animals face during nights when fireworks are used."
Steve Byrne GSPCA Manager said "Every November we see an increase in stray dogs escaping due to the noise made by fireworks and concerns raised by worried pet owners."
"Many enjoy the displays and sounds made by fireworks but it is important to ensure your animals and pets are safe and you consider the wildlife before running your own event."
"The GSPCA team will be speaking to all ages about the importance of safety and thinking of animals in the run up to the days fireworks are going to be used."
"Both the GSPCA and the States run an online firework calendar and we are asking for those organisors to let us know so we can put them on our calendar and alerts on our social media."
The Firework Code
Keep fireworks in a sealed box or tin
Use them one at a time, replacing the lid immediately
NEVER put fireworks in your pocket
Read the instructions carefully, using a torch or hand lamp NEVER use a naked flame
Light fireworks at arms length using a taper or a firework lighter
Stand well back and NEVER return to a firework after it has been lit, it could explode in your face
Ensure that all children with fireworks are well supervised
NEVER throw fireworks
Keep all pets and animals indoors
Take care of sparklers, wear gloves to hold them and dispose of sparklers in a bucket of water as soon as they are finished
The Animal Firework Code - The GSPCA would like to urge every one to follow our Animal Friendly Firework Code and protect your pets and the local wildlife.
Please make sure that your pets are wearing a collar with an indentity tag in case they manage to escape from your home. We would also strongly advise that you have your pets microchipped as this enables us to reunite them with you much more easily should they run away. Please call the GSPCA for further details on having your animal microchipped.
Walk your dog during the day and as soon as it gets dark keep your dog or cat inside. Ensure all of the windows and doors are locked including dog and cat flaps.
Go to an organised display if you can, however don’t take your dog. If you are going out then draw your cutrains, put the television or radio on and provide you pet with a safe hiding place so they feel secure.
If you are having a private firework display then build your bonfire as late as possible to reduce the likelihood of any wildlife taking up residence. Before lighting the fire check the area thoroughly for hedgehogs. We are always saddened by the number of hedgehogs we receive that have suffered severe burns. Do not light fires or set off fireworks near trees where birds are likely to be roosting.
Please notify your neighbours of your intentions. Especially the elderly and those who have pets.
When horses are startled they are likely to bolt and can suffer serious injuries. Ensure that all horses, ponies and donkeys are securely stabled with the doors closed.
Remember to bring guinea pigs and rabbits inside or place under cover in an out building.
If you know that you pet is frightened by loud noises such as fireworks or has an existing heart condition please contact your vet for advice.
Please clean up after firework parties. Litter is hazardous to domestic and wild animals.
Remember NEVER let fireworks off near animals.
Help us to continue to keep them safe!
Thankfully the incidents of animals being injured by fireworks & bonfires in Guernsey are few and far between; but we mustn’t get too complacent. Below are some basic guidelines that will enable you to help all of our furry and feathered friends to stay calm and safe on and around Bonfire night.
To notify us of your event please email the team at the GSPCA and we can add your firework display to our calendar. Please let us know the location, date and times it is planned for and also if it is public or a private event.
Fireworks are exciting and pretty to look at and it is fun to celebrate Guy Fawkes with a bang, but for our furry and feathered friends this time of year can be a nightmare. Many animals domestic and wild suffer needlessly every year.
The GSPCA would like to urge everyone follow our animal friendly firework code and protect your pets and the local wildlife.
Please make sure that your pets are wearing a collar with an identity tag in case they manage to escape from your home. We would also strongly advise that you have your pets microchipped as this enables us to reunite them with you much more easily should they run away. Please call the GSPCA for further details on having your animal microchipped.
Walk your dog during the day.
As soon as it gets dark keep your dog or cat inside. Ensure all of the windows and doors are locked including dog and cat flaps.
Go to an organised display if you can. If you are having a private firework display then build you bonfire as late as possible to reduce the likelihood of any wildlife taking up residence. Before lighting the fire check the area thoroughly for hedgehogs. We are always saddened by the number of hedgehogs we receive that have suffered severe burns.
Please notify your neighbours of your intentions. Especially the elderly and those who have pets.
When horses are startled they are likely to bolt and can suffer serious injuries. Ensure that all horses, ponies and donkeys are securely stabled with the doors closed.
Remember to bring guinea pigs and rabbits inside or place under cover in an out building.
Don’t take your dog to a firework display. If you are going out then draw your curtains, put the television or radio on and provide you pet with a safe hiding place so they feel secure.
If you know that your pet is frightened by loud noises such as fireworks or has an existing heart condition please contact your vet for advice. They may suggest you try an Appeasing Pheromone such as ADAPTIL or Feliway diffusers or may discuss the use of sedatives; depending on your pet’s needs.
Please clean up after firework parties. Litter is hazardous to domestic and wild animals.
Remember NEVER let fireworks off near animals.
Note: ADAPTIL and Feliway products are on sale at the Shelter and have proven to be very effective in calming anxious pets. You should purchase the product as soon as you can for maximum effectiveness on and around Fireworks night. The GSPCA is keen to help owners reduce their pet’s anxieties and now offers these products for almost 50% less than other outlets.
If you require further advice please contact the GSPCA on 257261
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