AS bonfire night approaches, one Somerset council is urging residents to be firework friendly - and avoid putting extra pressure on our emergency services.

Sedgemoor District Council (SDC) has issued seasonal tips to help reduce pressure on our ambulance, fire, and police services.

A spokesperson for SDC said: "Not everyone enjoys fireworks or bonfires, so for some pets or neighbours, this time of year can be a miserable, frightening and confusing time.

"Every year there are reports of fireworks causing stress and anxiety to vulnerable people and animals.

"Did you know that you can now quieter and silent fireworks that will be less likely to cause distress to vulnerable people or animals?"

They have reminded residents there are certain dates where firework events are organised.

These include:

  • Diwali - November 4
  • Bonfire Night - November 5
  • New Year’s Celebrations (December 31- January 3)
  • Chinese New Year (February 1)

SDC has provided tips for residents:

  • If you can try to go to an advertised organised firework event rather than having fireworks at home – vulnerable people or owners of animals will be more likely to know the event is going to happen and it will give them a chance to prepare.
  • If having fireworks at home have you thought of using lower noise (less than 97 decibels) or quiet fireworks as these will be less likely to effect vulnerable people or animals.
  • Try to let your neighbours know in advance if you are going to use fireworks at home as it will give them time to prepare if they are vulnerable or have animals.
  • Residents and event organisers should take precautions so as not to let fireworks off near livestock.
  • Always clear up and dispose of firework debris and litter after the event, when it has cooled down and is safe to do so, to reduce litter and harm to wildlife may ingest the debris and the environment.

The council has also offered advice to event organisers:

  • Organisers of public firework displays within Sedgemoor are encouraged to advertise their event to local residents at least 7 days in advance of the event, this allows residents to take precautions for vulnerable people and animals.
  • Event organisers should clear up and dispose of firework debris and litter after the event, when it has cooled down and is safe to do so, to reduce litter and harm to wildlife which may ingest the debris and the environment.
  • Take precautions so as not to let fireworks off near livestock.