Plea for residents to enjoy fireworks safely and show consideration for neighbours

Peterborough City Council is urging residents to put safety first and consider their neighbours when celebrating with fireworks ahead of Guy Fawkes Night on 5 November.

Families are being encouraged to attend organised displays rather than set off fireworks at home, helping reduce the risk of injuries, fires and disruption.

Those who are planning their own celebrations are asked to give neighbours advance notice, choose quieter fireworks and finish early wherever possible. Unexpected loud bangs can cause distress to people and animals, while advance warning gives households time to prepare.

The advice comes on the back of a meeting this week between council officers, Councillor Christian Hogg, Cabinet Member for Regulatory Services and Enforcement and Peterborough MP Andrew Pakes about the use of fireworks.

They have agreed to investigate the option of a Public Spaces Protection Order in the city which would look to ensure the correct use of fireworks, including not throwing fireworks.

MP Andrew Pakes has also committed to continuing to lobby Government for policy change on the use of fireworks, including banning those above a specified noise level which have the greatest impact on residents and pets.

Councillor Hogg said: “We want everyone to enjoy their celebrations, but a few moments of entertainment should never come at the expense of someone else’s safety or wellbeing.