Bonfire Night warning to Yorkshire’s 40,000 horse owners as research reveals fireworks fears

Yorkshire based equestrian specialist Harry Hall is working with charity partner Redwings Horse Sanctuary to raise awareness of the risks fireworks can pose to horses, with more than 40,000 horse owners across Yorkshire potentially affected.

Loud, unexpected bangs can trigger a horse’s instinctive flight response, increasing the risk of animals escaping, suffering serious injuries or putting people in danger. Every year, horses are at risk of being killed or seriously injured in fireworks-related incidents.

Redwings’ research highlights the scale of concern among the equestrian community, with more than two-thirds of horse owners seeing a horse in their care negatively affected by fireworks at least once.

Helen Whitelegg, Campaigns and Policy Manager at Redwings Horse Sanctuary, said: “The weeks around Bonfire Night can be challenging for many horse owners. Redwings is already putting plans in place to give us the best chance of keeping our rescued residents safe over the coming weeks.

“But we know we cannot eliminate all risks, which is why we’re asking more people to Go Low this autumn and choose low-noise fireworks if they want to celebrate. Low-noise options provide all the spectacle and social occasion, just without the big bangs that can cause so much distress to neighbouring animals and wildlife.”

Yorkshire horse owners are being urged to prepare for the firework season by checking for planned local displays, keeping stabled horses occupied with familiar distractions such as extra hay or a radio, checking fields and stables for hazards and securing gates and fencing.

Redwings is also campaigning for low-noise fireworks below 90 decibels to become standard, arguing that quieter celebrations could reduce distress for horses, other animals and vulnerable people while allowing people to continue enjoying fireworks.

Liz Hopper, CEO of Harry Hall, added: “Supporting horse owners isn't just about being there when something goes wrong. It's also about helping owners understand and reduce the risks they can see coming.

“Fireworks can be particularly challenging because it isn't always possible to predict when or where a horse will encounter them. A sudden, unfamiliar bang can trigger a powerful flight response, and a frightened horse can injure itself, escape or put people at risk.

“Preparation can make a real difference. Finding out when and where local displays are taking place allows owners to plan ahead and take steps to make their horse's environment as safe as possible.”

Redwings’ research also found that more than 95 percent of respondents supported tighter regulation of fireworks, while more than 90 percent believed wider use of low-noise fireworks or alternatives would benefit horse welfare.

For more information, please visit: harryhallinsurance.com/

To find out more about Redwings’ Go Low campaign at www.redwings.org.uk/fireworks