More than 1,000 people have signed a petition calling for West Dunbartonshire Council to introduce low noise firework displays.
Thousands will flock to Levengrove Park next Tuesday (November 5) for the local authority’s annual Bonfire Night display.
However there is a growing clamour for less intrusive products to be used – with the loud bangs often terrifying animals and causing distress for people with auditory sensitivity.
Now a petition calling on West Dunbartonshire Council to follow the lead of some Italian authorities by introducing low noise displays has crossed the 1,000 signatures mark.
Dan Kirby, who started it, explains: “We are uniting our voices to advocate for low noise fireworks displays within the jurisdiction of West Dunbartonshire Council.
“Inspired by Italy’s recent decision to ban loud fireworks, we believe that it’s essential to take measures to protect our community’s wellbeing, with a particular focus on the impact of fireworks on our dogs and birds.
“Our community is home to countless dogs, and the distress they experience during traditional fireworks displays is a matter of serious concern.
“Dogs are highly sensitive to loud noises, and the fear and anxiety they endure during such displays are not only heartbreaking but also potentially life-threatening. We implore you to consider the safety and well-being of our four-legged residents.
“Furthermore, the loud noises generated by fireworks also affect our local bird populations, especially during breeding and nesting seasons.
“These disturbances can disrupt their natural behaviours and lead to the abandonment of nests, potentially impacting the survival of these vital species within our area.”
Earlier this year Edinburgh became the first Scottish council to vote for a ban on the use of fireworks in certain parts of the city around Bonfire Night.
Councillors voted to introduce the temporary restrictions in Niddrie, Balerno, Seafield and Calton Hill.
The control zones will run from 1-10 November and anyone setting off a private firework during this period will be committing a criminal offence.
The petition calls on WDC to mandate the use of low noise or silent fireworks to minimise the emotional distress and potential safety risks for dogs.
It also calls for specific times and locations to be designating for the setting off of fireworks, taking into account the local wildlife, and urges WDC to consider measures such as light shows, laser displays or drone performances in the future.
The petition concludes: “By supporting these measures, we aim to create a harmonious and compassionate community in West Dunbartonshire, where celebrations can coexist with the wellbeing of our dogs and the protection of our local bird populations.
“We kindly request your support in raising awareness and advocating for this cause within West Dunbartonshire Council. Together, we can make our community a safer and more compassionate place for everyone, including our canine and avian companions.”
The Levengrove Park display opens at 7pm on November 5, with the display starting from 7.30pm.
Road Closures will be in place on Bridge Street between High Street and Woodyard Road, with residents urged to take public transport or walk.
The petition can be found on Change.org