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Rise in firework incidents prompts safety warning

Victoria CookLondon
Getty Images A dog hides under green blanketGetty Images
The RSPCA said loud noises from fireworks could cause pets distress, which could lead to heart attacks

The London Fire Brigade (LFB) and the RSPCA have issued warnings ahead of Bonfire Night, asking people not to release fireworks at home due to a "rising number of incidents" and "growing concerns for animal welfare".

The warnings come as new LFB figures show firework-related calls and incidents have more than doubled since 2018.

Both organisations are urging Londoners to attend organised displays instead.

Fire investigation officer Peter Guppey said reducing the number of residential displays was more "considerate" to neighbours, and "cheaper, safer and often much more impressive".

He added: "We can also help create a calmer environment for pets, and many other animals."

LFB said on Bonfire Night itself it responded to 117 firework-related calls and incidents in 2025, 30% more than in 2024.

It said overall, control officers handled 809 emergency calls last year, 20% more than 2024.

LFB An LFB graph showing an overall rise in firework-related calls and incidents over the last eight yearsLFB
LFB figures show an overall rise in firework-related calls and incidents over the last eight years

The RSPCA said those setting off fireworks also needed to consider the impact on animals as loud explosions could cause animals "significant distress".

The charity said this could lead to medical episodes including heart attacks.

It said it had been campaigning for stricter controls on the sale of fireworks to the public, including restrictions on the loudest fireworks.

A government consultation on the sale of fireworks, with a view to potentially introducing tighter rules, has just ended and is being considered by ministers.

Lorena Cacioni, RSPCA vet nurse and dog owner, said: "Many worried pet owners are already starting to think about upcoming fireworks and wondering how to keep their pets safe and limit stress.

"By only choosing organised displays and taking steps to be prepared for animals in your home and in your communities, people can make all the difference for our animal friends at this time of year."

Cacioni also advised pet owners to prepare calm areas for pets within the home, ahead of the fireworks this weekend.

Getty Images A display of fireworks illuminates the sky as part of Bonfire Night celebrations during Alexandra Palace's 2025 Fireworks and Drone Festival in London.Getty Images
The RSPCA and the London Fire Brigade are urging firework-seekers to head to organised displays instead of setting them off at home

LFB officer Guppey added: "If you are going to use fireworks in your garden, let your neighbours know in advance, keep pets indoors where possible, and make sure your celebrations end by 23:00.

"All fireworks contain powerful explosives, so follow the manufacturer's instructions carefully and ensure you have enough space to use them safely."

RSPCA advice for pet owners:

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

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