With Halloween just around the corner, Bonfire Night will be here before long.
While Guy Fawkes night displays are a highlight every year, revellers must keep to the right side of the law.
There are strict rules in Scotland that set out when, where and who can set off fireworks - and they can change every year. A new law came into force this month that means anyone who supplies fireworks to under-18s could face a £5,000 fine or six-months imprisonment.
In addition to this, there are laws protecting our beloved pets on Bonfire Night - and setting off fireworks near dogs could leave you with a hefty fine. You could slapped with a penalty of £20,000 and even time behind bars if you cause dogs distress with a firework display.
It is well known that many dogs - and other pets - are petrified of fireworks, making Bonfire Night a dreaded evening for many dog owners.
Moreover, a new Scottish law was enacted in 2021 that made it illegal to set off fireworks outside the hours of 6pm and 11pm and midnight on November 5.
The Fireworks (Scotland) Miscellaneous Amendments Regulations 2021 came into effect in June, with the curfew extended to 1am on New Year's Eve, the night of Chinese New Year and Diwali.
Why you could be fined for setting off fireworks near animals
Under the Animal Health and Welfare (Scotland) Act 2006, the law states that it is an offence to cause any unnecessary suffering to a captive or domestic animal. The offence carries a fine of up to £20,000 and/or six months in prison.
The regulations of fireworks act says: "Under the Animal Welfare Act 2006, powers exist for secondary legislation and codes of practice to be made to promote the welfare of animals.
"Under section 4 of the Act, it is an offence to cause any unnecessary suffering to any captive or domestic animal.
"The offence carries a fine of up to £20,000 and/or a prison term of up to six months. The Act is enforced by local councils, animal health officers and the police."
Unnecessary suffering is defined in a number of different ways under the Animal Health and Welfare (Scotland) Act 2006.
A person commits an offence if:
- the person causes a protected animal unnecessary suffering by an act, and
- the person knew, or ought reasonably to have known, that the act would have caused the suffering or be likely to do so.
A person who is responsible for an animal commits an offence if:
- the person causes the animal unnecessary suffering by an act or omission, and
- the person knew, or ought reasonably to have known, that the act or omission would have caused the suffering or be likely to do so.
Whether the display was organised by the owner of the dog or not, you could still be fined. As firework season nears closer, 42 per cent of dog owners have voted fireworks night as the worst night of their year.
Research for charity Guide Dogs revealed that fireworks were the biggest cause of dog anxiety at 42 per cent of coming in ahead of sudden noises at 33 per cent. Furthermore, almost a fifth of UK dog owners say fireworks night has a detrimental effect on their pets' mental health.
As a result, the charity has advised people planning to hold celebrations this year to be a good neighbour and be mindful of dogs who live nearby.
Some 43 per cent of dog owners suggested that their neighbours should pre-warn them when they are planning to set off fireworks to help prevent distress and anxiety to their pets.
Measures such as limiting the time frame in which fireworks are allowed, a need for quieter fireworks or holding alternatives such as bonfires or sparklers were suggested with over one third of dog owners agreeing.
It is important to look out for warning signs in your dog such as barking or howling, shivering, digging and constant drooling.
If you are worried about your canine companion this Bonfire Night, there are some steps that you can take to help them feel safer and more comfortable as the fireworks kick off.
The RSPCA explains that things like moving your dog to a 'safe haven' before the fireworks begin can help.
This could be an area with their toys, somewhere sheltered or simply an area in your home where your dog will not be alone.
Other tips include walking your dog during daylight hours, closing windows and curtains to help muffle the noise, putting on some music or turning the TV up and ignoring the fireworks yourself while keeping your dog occupied..
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