Debate Intensifies Over Future of Noisy Fireworks as Bonfire Night Approaches

Campaigners remain divided on whether a ban is necessary. Alan Friggieri of the charity Combat Stress, which supports veterans with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), told the Commons Business Committee that helpline calls surge during firework season because loud bangs can trigger symptoms.

Friggieri recounted a veteran who had been shot multiple times telling him: “Nothing quite sounds like an AK47 other than fireworks going off – it’s that crackle.” He emphasized that veterans need to plan around key dates but clarified that his organization is not calling for a ban, acknowledging the cultural importance of firework displays.

British Fireworks Association (BFA) vice chairman Hubble urged better enforcement of existing rules to curb antisocial behaviour, warning that a ban in Ireland had fueled a flourishing black market. Speaking to BBC Breakfast, he said: “There is a real risk here that if we make fireworks quieter and there is still a demand, we could create an illegal market where fireworks are coming in through internet sales and white van sales.”

He added that the current market is well-regulated, with enforcers who know and can test products. “As soon as these products go undercover then we lose that. We could actually create a louder and noisier environment because those are the sorts of fireworks that we’re seeing coming in through illegal sales on the internet.”

Asked whether displays were getting noisier, Hubble said: “No, no, it’s a lot quieter than it used to be – we used to have bangers and air bombs and screamer rockets that used to be on sale and they were withdrawn from sale.”

He cited a BFA assessment showing that a 50% noise reduction to 110 decibels—the level the government is considering—would impact up to 60% of firework sales to the general public. Lowering the limit to 90 decibels would affect approximately 95% of fireworks. “That’s effectively a ban on consumer fireworks, not a modest reduction in noise,” he said.

RSPCA advice for people with nervous pets:

• Stay calm and show your pet that all is well.
• Put on music or the TV to help mask firework sounds.
• Close windows and do what you can to block out both the noise and the flashes.
• Keep your environment secure: make sure your pet cannot escape if there is a sudden noise.
• For dogs: let them pace around; if they are whining, barking, or hiding, let them.
• Play with a toy if your pet wants to join in, but do not force them to play.

Combat Stress advice for people with PTSD:

• Use noise-cancelling headphones to reduce the sound of explosions and blackout blinds to block out flashes of light.
• Use scented candles, diffusers, or plug-ins to make your home smell pleasant and nothing like the scents you remember from deployments.
• Remind yourself you are safe, and focus on the present using breathing and grounding techniques, or with exercise.
• Ask friends and family to be with you on key dates like Bonfire Night.

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