BHS highlights danger of fireworks following latest equine injury figures

The BHS urges the general public to act responsibly this bonfire night after new statistics show shocking figures in equine-related incidents caused by fireworks

Already this year, four horses have been killed as a direct result of fireworks, and, as a result, the BHS has issued guidelines for the general public to help reduce the risk of more tragic accidents occurring across the UK.

Since 2010, 45 horse fatalities have been logged via the BHS’s Horse i app, while, in total, the charity has received 1,317 firework-related incident reports during this time period, a figure that includes 292 equine injuries.

To help reduce the risk, the general public are being asked to…

• where possible, attend public displays
• if planning to set off fireworks, advise your neighbours in advance to give any horse owners time to prepare
• consider using quiet or silent fireworks, which allow for the same fabulous display but without spooking any animals nearby
• aim any rockets away from fields or stables, as debris can cause injury to horses and could pose a fire risk to stables

Safety team leader at the BHS, Des Payne, says: “Fireworks may be enjoyable for some people, but we must remember that they can cause considerable distress to horses. We are urging anyone planning to set off fireworks during this period to understand the effect it may have on local animals and the potential fire risk to stables or outbuildings.”

The BHS is encouraging equestrians and the wider public to log any firework concerns through the Horse i app. Logging these incidents will help the equine charity to better understand the rate of equine-related incidents across the UK and, critically, lobby for a change in the law relating to equine safety.

Most recently, the BHS’s figures provided information for new firework laws to be introduced in Scotland. Under the updated act, councils in Scotland can now designate firework control zones where it will be a criminal offence to ignite or knowingly throw a lit firework.

To find out more firework advice for horse owners, visit bhs.org.uk