THE RSPCA has warned that this fireworks season could be the worst in decades for animals as more people opt for DIY displays at home due to Covid restrictions.

The animal welfare charity has launched a national campaign to discourage people from hosting private firework displays, with research showing over 20 per cent of people were planning to do so. 

With the widespread cancellation of large outdoor events, 21 per cent of UK adults plan to hold a private display at home this year, while 20 per cent who plan to attend a private display at a friend’s or family member's home.

This is nearly twice as many as in 2019 (11 per cent and 12 per cent respectively).

In the North East 17 per cent of respondents said they are planning a private firework display, while the figure stood at 19 per cent for Yorkshire and the Humber. 

Every year, the RSPCA receives hundreds of calls about fireworks affecting animals. Over the last four years, it has received 1,543 calls about fireworks.

What's more, 21 per cent of UK adults reported owning, knowing or having heard about an animal that had tragically died as a result of fireworks.

RSPCA animal welfare expert Dr Mark Kennedy fears, due to the rule of six, there will be lots of little displays that will prolong noise and disruption for weeks. 

The #BangOutOfOrder campaign calls for tighter controls and regulations around the sale and use of fireworks in a bid to help people and animals who suffer with fireworks phobias and noise aversion. 

The Northern Echo: Ava collapsed on the bed, hyperventilating and surrounded by splatters of blood after very loud fireworks which shook windows Ava collapsed on the bed, hyperventilating and surrounded by splatters of blood after very loud fireworks which shook windows

Mr Kennedy said: “We understand that people enjoy celebrating Bonfire Night, New Year’s Eve and other key dates with fireworks and we don’t want to spoil the fun.

"We’d urge people to be considerate and keep neighbours with animals, including those with nearby horses and other livestock, informed of plans well in advance so they can make preparations to reduce the stress to their animals.”

Wildlife can also be seriously impacted by bonfires and fireworks, Mr Kennedy warns, adding: "Wild animals, like hedgehogs, are at risk of being burnt alive after making their homes inside bonfires and piles of leaves, while some birds will flee their nests or whole colonies can disappear due to noise disturbance.

“Fireworks are extremely stressful and frightening but they can also cause very serious injury and even death to some. Poor Ava here is an example of how frightened animals can, in their panic, make themselves very ill or hurt themselves badly.

The Northern Echo: Harry the horse was found impaled on a fence post having been spooked by fireworks Harry the horse was found impaled on a fence post having been spooked by fireworks

“It can be particularly dangerous for horses and livestock who can be spooked by the loud bangs and bright flashes of light, putting them at risk of injuring themselves on fencing, farm equipment or fixtures and fittings within their housing."

The British Horse Society reports 23 deaths and 166 injuries in horses due to fireworks incidents since 2010.

Last November, RSPCA officers were called out to Bryn Celyn, in Wales, to help a horse called Harry who had been found impaled on a fence post having been spooked by fireworks and needed emergency veterinary treatment.

To support the #BangOutOfOrder campaign, please visit the RSPCA website.