Exeter MP asks residents to ‘look out for their neighbours’ this Bonfire Night
A survey by Exeter MP Steve Race found that 66 per cent of residents in Exeter have a negative view of fireworks, with many fearing distress to their pets and for their physical safety.
The MP for Exeter has said he’s received hundreds of letters from residents concerned about fireworks in the city, and asks people to “look out for neighbours who might struggle” this time of year.
Following these letters, and the opening of a Government consultation on the introduction of stricter fireworks regulations, Steve Race, MP for Exeter, launched a survey to better understand how residents are affected.
“It is clear that people are feeling the harmful effects of anti-social firework use,” Mr Race said.
“One resident even told me that they have chosen to move to a different part of the city because of how often fireworks were being let off in their old neighbourhood.”
Mr Race’s survey found, from “hundreds” of respondents, that attitudes towards fireworks in the city were generally negative. 66 per cent of residents said they had a negative view - compared to 23 per cent who expressed a positive one.
Of those with negative views, 87 per cent said they feared distress to their pets, 44 per cent reported their own anxiety, and 43 per cent had concerns for their physical safety.
“Almost three quarters of respondents in Exeter would like to see the noise limit on fireworks lowered, the majority believing the maximum decibel level should be cut from 120 to 90,” added Mr Race.
“I have submitted these views to the Government consultation… and will make sure that Exeter’s voice is heard as the Government decides on next steps.”
The Government’s proposals include a restriction on the availability of noisier fireworks to the general public and a review of fireworks currently classified as ‘low risk’.
“In the meantime, with Bonfire Night approaching, there are things we can all do to look out for our neighbours who might struggle at this time of year,” said Mr Race.
“We can attend organised displays, choose quieter fireworks, and let people know in advance if we’re planning to set them off at home.
“By taking simple voluntary steps, with support from the Government to crackdown on anti-social use, we can still enjoy fantastic fireworks displays without causing needless alarm and harm to our communities.”
The Government’s consultation into firework regulations closed on Wednesday, October 7. An outcome is expected shortly.