Love them or hate them, this weekend there'll be fireworks aplenty as people celebrate Guy Fawkes.
Fire and Emergency New Zealand (FENZ) is encouraging people to have fun and stay safe if they are using fireworks. FENZ recommends that people attend public fireworks displays and has provided safety tips for personal use of fireworks:
- Read the firework instructions with a torch before using them.
- Light in a wide, open area away from anything that could catch fire.
- Fireworks, alcohol and drugs are a dangerous combination.
- Never let a child light fireworks.
- Keep a bucket of water or hose nearby.
- Keep all unlit fireworks in the box or bag until you are ready to use them.
- If one of your fireworks doesn't go, dispose of it safely. Place it in a bucket of water. Do not attempt to relight it.
- Any minor burns should be put under cold running water for at least 20 minutes.
- For serious burns, seek medical attention.
- Think about others: Fireworks are noisy - consider your neighbours; keep pets inside when fireworks are being used; point fireworks at the stars, not at your mates.
According to the MetService forecast, Saturday night looks the best weather-wise this weekend so take particular care of your animals that evening but remember that the fireworks go on for more than one night.
SPCA New Zealand has some tips for keeping animals safe:
- Never let fireworks off close to animals.
- Stay home with your pet - they will be less stressed with someone they trust close by.
- Keep them indoors - they won't see the flashes and the bangs will be muffled. Close doors and windows and draw the curtains. Turn up the volume on your radio or TV to help drown out loud bangs with familiar sounds.
- Make sure that your cat or dog has somewhere comforting to hide such as an igloo, box, crate or somewhere they feel safe to retreat to.
- Both cats and dogs should be microchipped and have a collar and identification tag with your contact details on it. If your pet panics and runs away, it will help rescuers reunite you.
- Comfort your pet - this could mean cuddling them if it helps or giving them space, depending on what your pet needs. Try to behave in a calm and reassuring manner. Take special care of elderly or nervous pets.
- Move horses and farm animals away from fireworks and make sure all fences are secure. Stable horses where possible.
- Never punish your pets when they are scared. This will only make their fear and stress levels worse.
- Try a compression wrap, like a thundershirt, for dogs.
- Exercise your dog early in the day to avoid being out in the dusk when fireworks could be set off.
- Don't forget small pets like rabbits, guinea pigs or chickens. Have them tucked away or even inside for the night.
- Keep in mind that for some animals, fireworks can be a real phobia and that should be treated with medication. Speak with your vet for options before the fireworks start.