Private firework displays have been a cause for debate in the build up to November 5, but a poll has revealed that those against them are still in the minority.
Common objections to private firework displays
Private firework displays have split opinions, both in Alsager and the country as a whole. They are commonly criticised because dogs are often scared of the sound of the explosions, while another argument against them is that they cause distress for children with autism or people with PTSD.
The safety of private displays has also been questioned, while there are concerns they lead to dangerous and antisocial behaviour.
Although Alsager had its public bonfire and fireworks display on Saturday, run by Alsager Round Table, many still choose to set off fireworks in their own gardens.
The poll results
An Alsager News poll, conducted on the Alsager Community Facebook group, has found that only 35 per cent of voters are bothered when residents set off fireworks.
According to the poll, 199 locals do not mind fireworks being set off by residents, but the other 110 have voted that they do have a problem with private displays.
Town Councillor, Michael Unett, responded in the comments saying: “Personally I think it should be public displays only – big or small.
“It would stop people letting them off at stupid times and lower accidents related to fireworks at home.”
Fellow Councillor, Rachel White, also has some objections to private displays, but she does not believe they should be banned completely. She said it would be good if they were only allowed during the first week of November and no later than 9pm.
Other commenters agreed that there should be restrictions on when private fireworks can be used, with many displays taking place as early as October this year.
What are the current restrictions on private firework displays?
While setting off fireworks privately is generally allowed, there are some restrictions in place.
Fireworks are not allowed to be set off between 11pm and 7am, although they are allowed to be set off until midnight on Bonfire Night. Other exceptions include New Year’s Eve, Diwali and Chinese New Year, when they are allowed until 1am, but they must not be set off in streets or other public places.
Fireworks for private use can only be bought from registered sellers on the following dates:
- 15 October to 10 November
- 26 to 31 December
- Three days before Diwali and Chinese New Year
At other times, fireworks can only be bought from registered shops, and if fireworks are sold or used illegally, the person guilty of the offence could be fined and even jailed for up to six months.
Some fireworks, known as adult fireworks, cannot be bought by those under the age of 18.
Alsager News 