For many families it’s a highlight of autumn. For many pets, horses and livestock, it’s the most frightening week of the year. The two don’t need to be in conflict. The kindest thing any of us can do is make sure everyone knows when the fireworks are coming. Those who love a display can plan their evening, and those with nervous animals can be home, curtains drawn, ready for it.

Organised public displays (as known on day of publishing this article)

Thursday 5th November: La Villette Hotel, St. Martin. Guernsey Scout Group, Vale.
Friday 6th November: Belgrave Wanderers Football Club, St. Sampson. La Houguette Primary School, St. Pierre du Bois.
Saturday 7th November: St Martins Athletic Club, St. Martin.
Sunday 8th November: Guernsey Rugby Club, St. Andrew.

The States of Guernsey keeps a register of notified displays at gov.gg/fireworks, and anyone can sign up for an email or text reminder about 24 hours before each one. If you have animals at home, it’s well worth doing.

If you’re holding your own

Keep to the designated day, 5 November, and to sensible hours between 6.30pm and 9.30pm. Register your display on gov.gg/events, however small, so neighbours and animal owners can prepare. Bonfires are permitted only from 3rd to 7th November. If there are horses or livestock in nearby fields, let their owners know your plans.

Helping animals through the night

The States Veterinary Officer advises keeping animals somewhere safe and secure that muffles the noise: indoors, with curtains drawn and the television or radio on. Don’t shut them into a small space, because confinement can make anxiety worse. Let a dog move from room to room as it chooses. Bring rabbits and guinea pigs under cover, check that horses’ fields and stables are secure, and walk dogs before dark. For animals that struggle every year, speak to your vet now rather than on the night.

Spare a thought for wildlife too. Build bonfires close to lighting, or check them carefully first, as hedgehogs often shelter inside. Clear away firework debris the following morning.

REMEMBER, REMEMBER: BONFIRE NIGHT IN GUERNSEY, AND KEEPING OUR ANIMALS CALM

Bonfire Night falls on Thursday 5th November this year, and Guernsey’s season of bonfires, sparklers and night skies full of colour is nearly here.

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