Fireworks and the Law

2nd November 2017

fireworks and horsesANYONE PLANNING FIREWORK DISPLAYS PLEASE TAKE NOTE!

Animal Welfare act 2006 to cause any unnecessary suffering to any captive or domestic animal. Fireworks must not be set off near livestock or horses in fields or close to buildings housing livestock. Anyone planning a firework display in a rural area should warn neighbouring farmers in advance.

Section 4 of the AWA 2006 (https://www.legislation.gov.uk/ukpga/2006/45/contents) says ……

(1) A person commits an offence if—
(a) an act of his, or a failure of his to act, causes an animal to suffer,
(b) he knew, or ought reasonably to have known, that the act, or failure to act, would have that effect or be likely to do so,
(c) the animal is a protected animal, and
(d) the suffering is unnecessary. If the fireworks are near a road you can also contact the Highways division of your council and quote the following Source: Explosives Act 1875 Section 161

The British Horse Society are collecting data on incidents involving horses, whether the horses are ridden, driving a carriage or cart, led in-hand or loose.

Who can report to the BHS?

  • Anyone directly involved in or having witnessed an incident. You don’t have to be a BHS member.

What counts as an incident?

Any unplanned event that has:

  • resulted in a rider or handler feeling concerned (e.g. verbal abuse)
  • resulted in a horse reacting in an unsettled way (e.g. excessive noise)
  • the potential to cause injury to a rider, handler or horse even though it may not have at this time (a near miss)
  • already caused injury to a rider, handler or horse (an accident)

What does your incident involve?

  • Road/off-road user
  • Dogs
  • Slippery road surfaces
  • Low flying aircraft
  • Drones
  • Fireworks

To report an incident, visit the British Horse Society website using this link: https://www.bhs.org.uk/our-work/safety/report-an-incident/report-an-incident

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