This Bonfire Night, the Council is urging all residents to have fun, but also to stay safe and be considerate to others, including Armed Forces veterans, the elderly, family pets and all animals.
While many look forward to Bonfire Night, many others are filled with anxiety in the lead-up to November 5, such as our veterans living with Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder.
Remember, Remember, not just the Fifth of November, but also those individuals who constantly live with PTSD. Many people in our communities need extra support at this time of year and animals need extra love and attention.
Councillor Maureen Webber, Rhondda Cynon Taf Council Deputy Leader and Armed Forces Champion, said:
“The last 18 months or so has been particularly difficult for us all, and it’s understandable that many people will be looking forward to celebrating Bonfire Night with their families and friends.
“We want to work with our communities to ensure they can do so safely but also urge our residents to be considerate to others while at the same time remaining safe. While it is lovely to see so many people of all ages enjoying themselves on November 5, there are many who struggle to cope at this time of year.
“Fireworks going off, intense lights and sudden loud noises can cause great personal trauma to so many people so please be mindful of neighbours and also spare a thought for the animals and pets in our locality, which we all love and adore.
“This can also be a very stressful time for them, and they could become confused and disoriented with the loud noises and flashes of light going on around them.
“It may be a good idea to let your neighbours know well in advance if you are going to be setting off fireworks or having a bonfire party. This way, those with pets or those living with PTSD can prepare for it as much as possible.”
Rhondda Cynon Taf Council works very closely with its Armed Forces community and South Wales Police all year around and is once again supporting the Operation Bang 2021 campaign.
Please remember that Bonfire Night is Not Fun For Everyone. It is also, traditionally, an extremely busy time for our Emergency Services. Fireworks and bonfires can be fun, but also extremely dangerous if not managed and handled correctly. Please do not put your loved ones or local community at risk.
Fires can spread and become out of control in a matter of seconds, risking damage to property, injury and even death. Firework and bonfire misuse related incidents can also cost lifesaving minutes in our fire fighters getting to other emergencies.
Fire smoke can also irritate airways, skin and eyes, causing coughing, wheezing, breathlessness and chest pain. People with COVID-19, asthma and other respiratory diseases may be affected due to smoke inhalation.
Also, spare a thought for all animals and household pets at this time of year. Animals can become extremely distressed, being easily frightened by loud noises and sudden flashes of bright light. A pet’s distress may present itself in various ways, such as shivering, restlessness and chewing. Vomiting and hiding are common reactions.
Horses and farm animals can also easily be startled, and this can cause them to injure themselves on fencing, equipment or, in the case of stabled or housed animals, on fixtures and fittings within their enclosures.
RSPCA – How To Keep Your Pets Safe
Posted on 05/11/2021