Fireworks That Forced Terrified Birds to Flee onto Road Spark PETA Proposal

For Immediate Release:

2 August 2017

Contact:

Jennifer White +44 (0) 20 7837 6327, ext 222; [email protected]

FIREWORKS THAT FORCED TERRIFIED BIRDS TO FLEE ONTO ROAD SPARK PETA PROPOSAL

Group Suggests That Stoke-on-Trent Swap Disturbing Loud Fireworks for Dazzling Noiseless Displays

Stoke-on-Trent – After learning that ducks and geese were forced to flee onto a main road as a result of being terrified by loud fireworks set off during a performance of Water Fools in Hanley’s Central Forest Park last weekend, PETA wrote to the local council with a suggestion: use only silent fireworks in the future in order to create a stress-free environment for Stoke-on-Trent’s animal and human residents.

In the letter, PETA – whose motto reads, in part, that “animals are not ours to abuse in any way” – notes that in addition to being traumatic for wildlife, the bangs from fireworks cause domestic animals distress. Animal-rescue centres often see an increase in the number of lost dogs following conventional fireworks displays, many of whom panic and break loose from leads or jump over fences or even through glass windows in an attempt to get away from the terrifying sounds. And the stress isn’t limited to animals: noise-sensitive children, elderly people, veterans, and others suffering from post-traumatic stress disorder can find the noise of the explosives disturbing.

“Richer in colour effects and visual choreography than conventional displays, silent fireworks offer a peaceful celebration,” writes PETA Campaigns Strategist Luke Steele. “By using only silent fireworks in Stoke-on-Trent, you’ll be able to deliver all the flash without the frightening noise of conventional displays, thereby improving the quality of life for all the city’s residents.”

The letter can be viewed here. For more information, please visit PETA.org.uk.

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