Government Considers Reducing Fireworks Noise Limits Amid Public and Veteran Concerns

The government is currently examining the possibility of reducing the noise limit for fireworks bought in shops for private use by 50%, a consideration prompted by campaigners who are worried about the effect on people with PTSD and nervous animals, according to BBC UK.

Professionally organized firework displays would continue to operate without a maximum noise limit, provided the noise level does not prove harmful to human health.

Industry figures indicate that approximately 20 million individuals enjoy fireworks at home annually.

Andy Hubble, representing the British Fireworks Association (BFA), stated that displays have already become quieter and emphasized the necessity of finding a balance to prevent a black market of loud fireworks from emerging.

The end of October marks the beginning of several celebrations traditionally associated with fireworks and bonfires, including Halloween on October 31, Guy Fawkes Night on November 5, and Diwali, which is scheduled for November 8 this year.

The government has stated that imposing a complete ban on the public purchasing fireworks would not be proportionate.

However, some campaigners, such as Alan Friggieri from the charity Combat Stress, who supports veterans with PTSD, maintain that a ban is unnecessary.

BFA vice chairman Hubble advised that a ban in Ireland had resulted in a thriving black market for firework sales, and called for police to enforce existing regulations more effectively to curb antisocial behavior.

Regarding noise levels, the government is considering lowering the maximum noise limit from the current 120dB, which is comparable to a thunderclap, down to 110dB, which is equivalent to a car horn.

An assessment conducted by the BFA on firework sales suggests that a 50% noise reduction to 110 dB would affect up to 60% of firework sales to the general public.

Some campaigners advocate for lowering the levels to 90dB, which is equivalent to a lawnmower, but Hubble noted that this would impact around 95% of fireworks, effectively constituting a ban on consumer fireworks rather than a minor noise reduction.

Business Minister Kate Dearden mentioned that her department is looking into reforms to fireworks legislation, focusing on harms linked to misuse, such as noise and antisocial behavior, while still permitting individuals to enjoy fireworks safely and responsibly for important community and cultural celebrations.

It is already illegal to sell fireworks to individuals under 18, or to set them off after 23:00, with exceptions made for occasions like Bonfire Night, Diwali, New Year's Eve, and Chinese New Year.

Dog owner Katherine Alderson from Clacton-on-Sea shared that she has barricaded her bedroom window with insulation this year to try and block out firework noise, suggesting that displays should focus on lights and colors and proposing a total ban on general public firework sales as a potential solution.

Friggieri, while noting that calls to Combat Stress's helpline increase during this time of year due to loud bangs potentially triggering PTSD symptoms, stated that his organization understands the cultural significance of firework displays and is not calling for a ban.

Hubble clarified that displays are not getting noisier than they once were, noting that older fireworks like bangers, air bombs, and screamer rockets that were previously on sale have been withdrawn.