Why so little empathy for those who have issues with fireworks?

[-]

Turbulent_Welder_599@reddit

Because it’s predictable

If it rained every day at 3pm and people constantly complained every day at 3pm that it’s raining it would start to annoy you

Appreciate if you have animals or whatever that are bothered by it then it can be quite distressing but it literally has happened every year for the last 400 years

Nothings going to change by posting on Reddit the same thing at the same time every year

[-]

seriousrikk@reddit

But it’s not predictable enough to actually be able to do anything meaningful about it.

Walked my dog two hours early, so well before it got dark. Silly twats were letting bangers off on the next street across.

If it happened between 6 & 9 pm and nothing more it’s easier to deal with but it just doesn’t work like that. People cannot be trusted to be responsible so in turn should not be allowed to purchase explosives without appropriate licensing.

[-]

Antillyyy@reddit

I volunteer at a donkey sanctuary where they pretty much all have trauma, abuse or neglect in their past. Without warning, after years of not doing it, the town council had a big firework display. They were all bolting around the fields. This sanctuary has been there for decades, there was no excuse to forget about them, and they didn't even warn the owner.

It's the week before bonfire night. Of course it's predictable. It's been like this since I can remember; hell, I remember the yearly enormous bonfire and ad-hoc fireworks displays that would last all week before the arseaching and gripers managed to get it shut down.

It still took them two years of sending police every night of the week.

The local pub used to do a charity fundraiser at the bonfire as well, but that's gone as well because the numbers don't make it worth it anymore.

[-]

RequirementFull6659@reddit

It's the week before bonfire night. Of course it's predictable.

Cool now what time? 5PM? 7? 1AM? All of the Above?

Also god forbid you have to aork evenings so you can't just wear noise cancelling headphones and your pets can go fuck themselves and have a panic attack whilst you're away.

[-]

SilverstoneMonzaSpa@reddit

seriousrikk@reddit

Yes, gun dogs are desensitised to the noise of guns as puppies.

Here’s the thing, it does work on all of them. Failed gun dogs are a thing too because despite following the same routine as all the others they became afraid anyway.

Same for any service dogs. You only see the ones who succeed.

[-]

Former_Wang_owner@reddit

I had gun dogs from the day I was born, all trained at home. My dad trained them for a living for a long time. At most, 1 in 10 didn't make the cut. We even trained a rescue whippet to be OK around loud bangs, that was more difficult, but it worked.

[-]

Total_Independence31@reddit

You're really comparing someone's sausage dog to a dog in a fucking war zone.

[-]

Birdsbirdsbirds3@reddit

Also gun/military dogs are often let go in the early stages of training when it becomes clear they don't have the temperament to withstand loud noises or stressful situations.

They're actually proof that not just any dog can be trained to withstand loud noises.

[-]

physicLaughs@reddit

A gun dog is used for hunting. Labradors, goldens... no warzone necessary

[-]

seriousrikk@reddit

No, it is not easy.

It takes time and consistency.

Then some silly twat sets a banger off in the park at midday and undoes all your work.

Try to be less awful in future

[-]

If its so easy, you are definitely going to need to elaborate on that one.

[-]

Former_Wang_owner@reddit

Acclimatisation is pretty much it. Get a firework sound effect cd, play it at a medium volume while you do something they love, and give them treats, brushing my cats worked well. Over time, I slowly increased the volume. They hardly stir when fireworks go off now. They used to be terrified.

[-]

seriousrikk@reddit

It’s great that worked for you.

But don’t go labelling people for who your easy approach doesn’t work for as shit owners.

That does NOT work for every dog. For many dogs it is not just the sound that they fear, but the fact larger bangs are felt through the floor and walls. You can’t desensitise that with a cd.

[-]

I'm a dog trainer who had a rescue dog so terrified of fireworks she stopped breathing and I had to administer CPR.

She ended up every winter being terrified as soon as the nights got dark early so I had my curtains closed by 4pm every day so she didn't see the sunset.

I had to dose her with diazepam when I knew there'd be fireworks. And from the end of October through to mid January who really can tell when anyone is going to let off the random rocket.

I only said guts, not ability. That wouldn't stop me though if I knew who it was.

People who let expensive fireworks off during the day ate doing it purely to piss people off.

Thanks. You have a low bar, but I will take the compliment anyway.

[-]

nashile@reddit

Can wild animals put noise cancelling headphones on too !?

[-]

Kitchner@reddit

Can wild animals put noise cancelling headphones on too !?

Sorry was I talking to a wild animal that learned to use reddit and make a ridiculous comment about being able to avoid cars by staying indoors? I didn't realise, that context changes so much. Obviously the OP was a badger telling people to stay inside their Warren's to avoid cars.

[-]

nashile@reddit

That wasn’t as witty as you think it was

[-]

Kitchner@reddit

That wasn’t as witty as you think it was

Taking advice from you about what is witty is about as useful as asking someone who is blind about various shades of blue.

[-]

nashile@reddit

Again . Just no

[-]

Kitchner@reddit

Again . Just no

Again. Just yes.

[-]

OhNoEnthropy@reddit

Your comment is bad and you should feel bad.

[-]

Kitchner@reddit

Nope. The suggestion if you had a phobia of cars it's OK because you can sit inside and never leave your house is absurd. Particularly when it's compared to having a fear of fireworks when there's a selection of noise cancelling headphones and ear plugs that can be temporarily worn.

[-]

Jacko182@reddit

If you're that stressed by cars you don't have to go in them or be near them

[-]

Has it always happened at random times for a week either side of bonfire night? It's like no one owns a calendar. Multiple days outside of 5th Nov, Halloween and Diwali. Why fireworks then? We had people setting off fireworks at 4.30 on Monday, 4pm on Wednesday. Why?? Why the sudden rise is daylight fireworks?

[-]

TonyBlairsDildo@reddit

Has it always happened at random times for a week either side of bonfire night?

Yes? It was the same when I was a kid; you'd get boys going to the local corner shop to buy fireworks in the 1980s when age checks weren't a thing and spending the evening setting them off.

The difference between now and then is the complaining about fireworks has moved from local verbal tutting between friends, to online published thesis' of how dogs PSTD are upset by them.

There's no historical record of annoyed conversations between neighbours, but there increasingly is of Facebook, Twitter and Reddit posts.

[-]

worotan@reddit

The amount of fireworks being used for long periods outside Bonfire night is way past what used to happen, and it’s easier now than it used to be to buy fireworks.

The fireworks you can buy now are much more powerful, varied and cheap compared to back then.

Stop avoiding the actual problem so you can reminisce and make inaccurate statements about it being the same as it ever was.

[-]

TonyBlairsDildo@reddit

The amount of fireworks being used for long periods outside Bonfire night is way past what used to happen, and it’s easier now than it used to be to buy fireworks.

Here is a public safety video from 50 years ago which talks about "the weeks leading up to November 5th", and over 1,000 people a year being injured by fireworks.

Here is a recent article by the Crisis Response journal that, again, mentions "1,000 injuries a year".

If bonfire night back in the day was such a civil and demure affair, why the need for a grizzly public service advert? Why are the reported injuries the same?

I grew up in the 90s and that’s exactly how i remembered guy fawkes night. Going to school the next day, all the thick smog and smell of black powder, aw…very fond memories😊

Plus i think the loud firework noises were worse then. I read all these comments like OPs and think, is it really that bad these days?.. in my part of London, i hardly hear or see anyone letting off fireworks anymore… i assumed it was because most people can’t afford to burn money on them, literally!

I just wish there were more free public displays! Then maybe the general public wouldn’t feel the need to go out and buy their own and the noises would be contained to the celebratory days.

[-]

TonyBlairsDildo@reddit

It's the bonfires I miss the most. Big giant roaring fires up the public common or rugby club. A few tyres burried inside, piled on top with old furniture, wardrobes, scaffolding boards and a helpfull splash of petrol if it was a bit of a damp evening.

Kids with their sparklers, adults having a nip of brandy from a flask all just mooching around enjoying staring at a fire. A very simple pleasure in life that isn't, apart from fireworks and burger vans, commercialised.

[-]

LitmusVest@reddit

When I was at Uni I lived in 'not the best' area in Liverpool. We taped our letterbox shut for 2 weeks as the local scallies would chuck fireworks into random houses.

That was 30 years ago: I suspect there hasn't been a sudden rise in this type of stuff.

[-]

Yoshee007@reddit

I love the "it's predictable" comments because it's getting less and less predictable every year. Other commenters have pretty much already covered this, but you can't predict random bursts of fireworks going off when it's not even dark - even in the mornings in some cases! - or starting days before either of the official celebrations (Diwali and Bonfire Night) are set to take place, and lasting for days after they're supposed to have finished. And the amount of fireworks being let off in recent years has only gone up.

Appreciate if it doesn't affect you much then you might get annoyed by the complaints, but considering the amount of fireworks and the timings have only been getting worse in recent years, people that do need to prepare are less and less able to, so expect to see a lot more of these threads in future years until something changes. Might not change anything posting here but sometimes people just need to vent.

[-]

C0nnectionTerminat3d@reddit

it’s not just about the noise it’s the danger too. Fires and 3rd degree burns are not predictable.

[-]

Woodland-Echo@reddit

It's far from predictable now. Bonfire night has happened yearly, sure and I don't think most people here are complaining about that. Bonfire week and bonfire month seem to be a new thing, and when you have to deal with your own and your pets stress levels being high every night because of people setting them off daily you get angry. I think people who set them off in their garden when it isn't even bonfire night are just selfish and thoughtless. And I dot Wana ruin fun, but the displays towns and cities put on should be enough.

[-]

roboticlee@reddit

It is part of our culture. Bonfire Night is an important remembrance of who we are as a people. Guy Forkes died but the balance of power between parliament and people is kept in check by our celebration of Bonfire Night. It is a day that has cultural and political meaning for the English people.

What annoys me is that Chinese New Year, Diwali and other events where fireworks are used are less picked on than our own Bonfire Night celebration or New Year's Day. For what it's worth saying, I enjoy all those celebrations.

I have pets. Two cats. Who am I to interpret whether they are afraid of the noise or excited in the same way as children are by Jack and the Beanstalk or Hansel and Gretel. No doubt fireworks excite them but I doubt they frighten them as much as pets react to the reactions of their human companions.

[-]

Catzdutz@reddit

See, you yourself say it is about one night. One. I think people might be more accepting if it was just the one night, but it's not - people are shooting off fireworks whenever they want for days either side of the date.

[-]

Impressive_Bed_287@reddit

I'm sorry but I think what you've said is load of old twaddle.

I'm English. It has significance for me because I have childhood memories of parkin, toffee, toffee apples, bonfires, fireworks, and what was effectively, 350 years after the events, a fairy story about Bad Men trying to blow up a King I knew very little about. Its chief significance for me, IOW, has nothing to do with political history and everything to do with chugging down massive amounts of sugar round a fire as my parents got clattered on wine and we all watched things go bang.

The reason Fawkes (Forkes? For someone claiming things about tradition it doesn't help your argument that you don't know how to spell his surname) was trying to blow up the king had to do with that mixture of politics and religion everyone gets very exercised about nowadays. James was Protestant, the Catholic conspirators - after decades of persecution - wanted a Catholic monarch and decided to try and force the issue.

Other than the fact that throughout history dissatisfied religious and/or political groups have chosen violence as a means to enact their aims, none of this has much current significance.

Church attendance is still declining, fewer people believe in any kind of deity and not only don't we persecute Catholics any more but most people couldn't give a toss if you're CofE, RC, Baptist, Anabaptist, Muslim, Hindu or Buddhist so long as you keep it to yourself.

Also the king isn't in charge now because of the civil wars that happened after James died. You've probably heard of his son, chap named Charles. Seems he really got people's goat and got himself beheaded as a result and after a protracted and tedious bit of back and forth the English political system got re balanced away from monarchy and towards parliamentary democracy which is maintained - like a lot of things - by conventions and legal obligations, not blowing bloody fireworks up.

Lastly, animals are frightened by fireworks. If you're inclined to interpret their behaviour as excitement I suggest you might want to read a little about animal behaviour.

[-]

bobbieibboe@reddit

With respect, I don't think you know what you're talking about. It's a nonsense statement to claim that perhaps the pets are actually excited by the fireworks and not utterly terrified.

I don't want to ban fireworks and I agree that Bonfire Night has an important cultural & political legacy that should continue to be celebrated.

[-]

JustUseDuckTape@reddit

Just because we've always done it is no reason to keep doing it. Yes, there is value in tradition but it's always worth reavaluating the harm caused. We've been burning coal since the 1800's but have since decided there's maybe a better option.

The tradition can continue fine limited to professional displays on the 5th. There's no need for the weeks of unpredictable personal displays. Not just the harm it does to people and pets, but all the shit it throws into the air and onto the ground.

I honestly can't think of anything else we let individuals do that has such a negative impact on other people. And for reference, my dog was so stressed he shat on the carpet, the cats spent all night hiding under a chair, and the two autistic adults were trying very hard not to get overwhelmed so we could at least look after the pets. Ten minutes of fun for the neighbours ruined our entire evening, and we're still all on edge today. Best of all we don't even know if we'll be doing it again tonight, Tuesday, next weekend, or if we've got some respite until Christmas.

[-]

TheGamingZoologist@reddit

I don’t think the public/average Joe should have what for all intents and purposes is an explosive device.

People are stupid. Inconsiderate.

I also believe fireworks do not need to be loud, there are ones that make no noise. Drone shows are also becoming a thing.

Call me a party pooper, but too many people are idiots, care little about others and the environment.

[-]

BaconLara@reddit

Fireworks should be banned tbh. And I’m not even scared of them and think they are pretty. The cons just far outweigh the pros. They terrify people, disrupt wildlife, scare and kill peoples pets, environmental damage. And for what? A few hours of pretty lights in the sky? We have drones now that can do some impressive light shows.

The only people who get pissed about criticism are usually boomers who have an aneurysm at the thought of anything changing; and since Covid the general online populace seems to have forgotten how to be empathetic

[-]

Metal_Octopus1888@reddit

The only real "pro" for fireworks is that they are part of our traditions (well sort of - bonfire night is the actual tradition. IDK when it became about fireworks, but still) - if that is the case then go and watch an organised display. It's a lot cheaper than putting on some crappy display in your back garden.

[-]

BaconLara@reddit

They never used to be such a massive issue

Being organised displays or the whole neighbourhood or family and friends would gather round one persons house.

Now it’s the Wild West for like 2 weeks. Not to mention the councils in some areas completely ban large bonfires in fields despite them being done annually for decades.

Tradition or not, no one is following it as a tradition anymore so why keep going.

[-]

KookyNeedleworker595@reddit

So the reason you hate fireworks now is in essence because the country has become more multicultural, unfortunately for you the Hindu population in the country has increased dramatically since the last 10 years, and because many of them celebrate diwali, you are now experiencing in your mind a prolonged guy fawkes night, when in reality there is now another cultures holiday that aligns at the same time of the year and generally is celebrated for a longer duration than guy fawkes night.

So stop being a bigot as this is culture.

[-]

BaconLara@reddit

“I like pancakes. Or so you hate waffles??” Ass response.

[-]

Fit_Natural_5256@reddit

I struggle to find how people can get entertained by fireworks in this day and age. 70 years ago maybe. My kids even find them boring and have zero interest. Ooooh look, bright lights and bangs. Seriously, it's pathetic.

[-]

Dont_want_to_adult_@reddit

I find it irritating when they were constant from 5pm to 11pm, when there were a group of kids round the corner throwing fireworks at cars. My daughter absolutely hates the noise of fireworks, so always falls asleep late on bonfire night.

I just don’t think there’s any need to sell them in Asda. I love an organised display, but when they’re getting launched at passing cars and going off without a break for 6 hours they really lose their appeal

[-]

UnfairToAnts@reddit

Morality is governed my legality. You’re allowed to have fireworks so the masses feel that’s permission to let them off whenever.

Ban fireworks.

And ban pets too.

[-]

Bulky_Caramel_2234@reddit

how can you expect empathy from a brain that finds an explosion enjoyable?

[-]

Darkgreenbirdofprey@reddit

Because loud bangs are, on the whole, relatively easy to deal with compared with life's other challenges.

[-]

welshiehm@reddit

I think that's just comments for you in general. Its a shame people can't just have a civil discussion.

Nw5gooner@reddit

I've always loved going to fireworks displays and I don't know why it only just occurred to me, because I've been to plenty like it, but the organised one I went to last night in South East London was right next to some woods. I spent the whole time wondering how all the birds, squirrels, mice etc in there would be reacting to these incredibly loud, bright and sustained explosions suddenly permeating their universe.

Loads of the spinny fizzy ones literally just cascaded straight into the trees. How many fled their nests and got disoriented? How many died of shock? It went on for 20 minutes and by the end I wasn't really paying attention to the display, just willing it to end.

My wife says I've gone soft.

For the record I still like fireworks but I think I now have an issue with doing it very close to woodland.

[-]

Broken_Sky@reddit

Exactly all of that, there are plenty of spaces that are not next to woodland and plenty of fireworks that are not super loud, it shouldn't be that hard to accomoate the wildlife while also being able to celebrate with fireworks.

[-]

roboticlee@reddit

The elements put into the air by fireworks eventually fall onto trees and plants and onto the ground. On trees and plants they help get rid of fungal infections. In the soil they help to improve soil fertility. It's never black and white. Also, clouds form around the particulates. Those clouds lead to rain (good for plants) and fog.

[-]

Alarmed_Crazy_6620@reddit

Some scale is needed I think. I imagine most of displays are in fairly urban areas where orders of magnitude more birds suffer from glass windows than the 5th of November.

It is a valid point to argue that we should minimise imposing unnecessary suffering but imo will always be some sort of balance for things are quite popular: we won't stop outdoor concerts, fairs, festivals that are probably similarly or more harmful.

The main issue that the extremist "ban fireworks" position has is that these are fairly popular and widely enjoyed. Seems like some nuance is needed even if you believe in reducing the availability of these

[-]

Bad_UsernameJoke94@reddit

I think most people aren't too against fireworks, if it's just organised displays or are the soundless fireworks

Personally I really don't like them, (Too loud for me), but i understand why people are for and against them.

[-]

evenstevens280@reddit

I'm fine with organised displays.

I'm not fine with James over the road setting off a bunch of fireworks that explode 30ft above my house.

[-]

Rhyssayy@reddit

But it’s his day off tomorrow he’s celebrating of course

[-]

llijilliil@reddit

Maybe if it wasn't illegal to use public parks or beaches etc to set them off yourself then people wouldn't be doing it in residential areas. As it stands that's the only legal option James has.

And its FAR more fun setting them off yourself and getting to see them up close compared to a big display you've got to travel to, fight for parking and so on.

[-]

evenstevens280@reddit

No

[-]

Alarmed_Crazy_6620@reddit

I think they are regulated about right. I don't want kids buying these but also I think adults should be able to buy these and do a small display – I don't want these to be limited to council-run events or needing the Senior Fireworks Apprentice bloke being involved if you want to set some off at your wedding. UK doesn't have that many firework displays throughout the year which I think is my main reason for being skeptical about restricting these further

[-]

Psychological-Ad1264@reddit

People can't behave with drinking = more regulation. People can't behave with their driving = more regulation. People can't behave watching football= more regulation.

Years and years of misuse with fucking explosives? Not even on the horizon to limit it.

We can veer between being a puritanical and also liberal country sometimes.

I'm posting this at 23:40 as there is another barrage of fireworks going off and my old dog is shaking in terror.

[-]

llijilliil@reddit

Years and years of misuse with fucking explosives? Not even on the horizon to limit it.

I mean its already illegal to use them in a dangerous manner, the police actively chase down teens doing that kind of thing.

The size of them is already tightly regulated and you can't legally use them anywhere but on your own land. What more are you looking for that isn't just a blanket ban?

[-]

Financial_Rooster_89@reddit

Me personally would be noise restrictions. Fireworks weren't this loud when I was a kid unless you went to a fireworks display. The noise is the main issue for most people/animals.

I'm Autistic and so is my family. But as an adult I can cope with it better but my children can't - my youngest physically jumps and then hides under a blanket. I can't put ear defenders on him for months just in case.

I also have 2 cats.

If the fireworks were quieter it would solve the problem. The alternative would be set days/times when they can be let off such as weekend nearest to and on the night of 5th but trying to police that would be a nightmare. However if they were all just quieter (exception made for public displays) then we wouldn't need to worry when they were being set off.

Talking about firework control in the UK is the equivalent of talking about gun control in America. It's so normal to us we can't see it any other way.

[-]

_Red_Knight_@reddit

Fireworks are not nearly problematic enough to justify government regulation.

[-]

Haunting_Design5818@reddit

Apart from all the problems listed here regarding animals, people with PTSD and just them being a general noise nuisance, in my view there are the following problems with them:

They’re literally explosives ( we don’t sell guns in supermarkets so why explosives?)
Litter - they cause litter everywhere that never gets picked up
Smoke pollution
Money - how much money (that we supposedly don’t have) are people literally blowing up at this time of year? Guarantee most of them will be complaining they’re skint at the weekend.

[-]

bUddy284@reddit

Fireworks are heavily regulated to ensure they safe to use. Handguns are solely used to kill or injure someone. It's like how we don't just ban knives lol.

What about litter from other big events like new year/musical festivals. Most ppl are considerate enough to pick up their shit.

Its tiny compared to pollution from vehicles and industry. The latter 2 actually have an impact on air quality and health.

Ppl can do whatever they want with their money

[-]

Psychological-Ad1264@reddit

There are already government regulations regarding fireworks. I'd argue they need to be tighter. There is absolutely no need for why they should be able to be set off when the vast majority of the country is trying to sleep, for instance.

[-]

_Red_Knight_@reddit

There are already government regulations regarding fireworks.

Yes but I'm sure you know what I meant.

There is absolutely no need for why they should be able to be set off when the vast majority of the country is trying to sleep, for instance

If you know who is setting them off, you are free to report them to the council for making noise at unreasonable hours.

[-]

Psychological-Ad1264@reddit

For bonfire night and Diwali, it's legal to set them off until 1am.

[-]

_Red_Knight_@reddit

That sounds like a reasonable hour to me, those are special occasions

[-]

Kaioken64@reddit

On the weekend I'd say fair enough, but in the week when most people have work then next day 11pm should be the cut off.

You’re correct.

Public support for private fireworks is much lower than public organised displays.

The government did research on this in 2019-20

[-]

Daveddozey@reddit

I miss Terry Wogans’s displays he had. Every year he’d put up soundless fireworks on his radio show, they were great.

[-]

Bad_UsernameJoke94@reddit

10/10

[-]

gemunicornvr@reddit

I can give you all the science on why it's bad for the environment if you actually want

https://earth.org/environmental-impact-of-fireworks/

I love fireworks, but my kids do not. It's made me think a bit differently about how I used to let off explosives in the garden of a housing estate. It's not just dog owners.

It is a tricky one, because I don't want to see them banned or anything, but I'm aware it is a big thing for some people. Plus pub music and trucks definitely are policed on their volumes and times of operation.

[-]

gemunicornvr@reddit

https://earth.org/environmental-impact-of-fireworks/

[-]

Alarmed_Crazy_6620@reddit

> Plus pub music and trucks definitely are policed on their volumes and times of operation.

So are the fireworks though. You can't buy the particularly loud ones, you can't set them off during the quiet hours, etc. It still stinks if your kid or pets are afraid.

I'm sorry but you and peoples pets just need to get over it. It's only for a small time and it's not traumatic to witness it. If it is causing a response then you need to find a way to block it out; it's not up to the rest of us to regulate ourselves, and stop a period of joy, because you personally struggle.

Amen.

[-]

StardustOasis@reddit

I think fireworks should be banned outside of New Year's Eve and Guy Fawkes Night

sjfhajikelsojdjne@reddit

😂 Wild exaggeration. If that was the case there would be 3 months of these posts but they pop up for 2 weeks every year from Diwali-Bonfire night, and again on NYE. OP's post is literally about noise, not about assault.

[-]

Spottyjamie@reddit

As ive said, im happy to direct you to many estates outside the i assume leafy suburb you live in where guy fawkes night is 9 weeks

Look in the glasgow/edinburgh/leicester subs as opposed to harrow/eton bubble

[-]

KookyNeedleworker595@reddit

Maybe you should get those of your ilk to behave a little better with fireworks then.

[-]

sjfhajikelsojdjne@reddit

I live in Bristol city centre right now and have lived in Glasgow and Birmingham lol. Getting your information off reddit instead of the real world isn't ever a good policy.

[-]

Spottyjamie@reddit

Ahh ok so you live in a predominantly retail/bar/office area with it being a city centre?

My city centre flat ten years ago was very quiet around this time, my detached house in an estate not so much

[-]

sjfhajikelsojdjne@reddit

Bristol is small, anything within an hour walk is the centre, which is densely populated with houses, gardens, parks. You can just accept you're exaggerating and move on with your evening 😂

[-]

SilverstoneMonzaSpa@reddit

The funny one for me was 00:01 on Easter Sunday.

Like who the fuck sets off fireworks to celebrate Easter, at gone midnight.

I thought the Luftwaffe had struck back

[-]

NiceCornflakes@reddit

Greeks. I’m married to one, went to Greece for Easter. The moment midnight hit was like new year, fireworks for about 15 minutes straight outside the church, and that was in a village of 6000 people, not even a town or city!

[-]

Gnome_Father@reddit

Just shut your window an go to sleep? It's not that hard?

[-]

FromHereToWhere36@reddit

It's been constant for a week already, every evening, where I live.

[-]

General_Ignoranse@reddit

What? 😂 I’m saying it’s easy to mitigate the issues with fireworks by using silent ones, it’s not that big of a thing to be able to sort out the main problem they cause

[-]

Federal_Shower_4343@reddit

Lots of animals die because of fireworks every year.

I dont understand why people like setting them off, knowing that its distressing so many animals and people with PTSD.

[-]

PapaPalps-66@reddit

Deodorant is harmful to those with respiratory problems.

[-]

Good-Cucumber3900@reddit

Err. it's more like aren't they unlucky.

[-]

Good-Cucumber3900@reddit

Err. it's more like aren't they unlucky.

[-]

Jaraxo@reddit

Because it shouldnt be that millions around the country should have to forgo fun for a tiny minority of people.

Yep. I don't like football, I find it dull and boring. I accept I'm minority. I also live <10mins from a major football stadium and I'm regularly inconvenienced on match days. I'm not here asking for football to be banned for my own convenience.

[-]

HydraulicTurtle@reddit

The stadium with scheduled matches which are communicated publicly well in advance, you mean? The stadium you could easily choose not to live near?

I don't think many people have issues with organised, regulated displays. They are advertised, the times are communicated, perfectly reasonable.

Bob next door deciding to set off 3 fireworks at 00:52 on a Tuesday? Less reasonable.

[-]

Big-Parking9805@reddit

I like a fireworks display. I'm not a huge fan of lighting my own fireworks for a display but they simply won't be as good.

Fortunately in the retirement village I live in, I think I've heard 3 fireworks on Saturday and that's it.

[-]

abgc161@reddit

If someone suffers from PTSD they really could suffer harm. I saw a news article of a woman whose dog had a stroke due to shock caused by fireworks and had to be put down. And new parents suffering from sleep deprivation who are desperately trying to get their baby down but can’t because of the noise.

I find fireworks mildly irritating and certainly don’t think they need to be banned for my benefit, but it’s not true that it doesn’t legitimately harm people and animals. Finding something ‘fun’ doesn’t seem a fair exchange for the difficulties it can cause.

[-]

Artistic_Data9398@reddit

Sorry pal sleep deprivation is going to be fixed if we stop fireworks. I dont care about animals, they arent humans

[-]

abgc161@reddit

Yeah because I said all causes of sleep deprivation would be cured /s.

Not caring about animals is your prerogative, but being okay with them being harmed due to something that’s totally avoidable is a bit strange.

[-]

Artistic_Data9398@reddit

One in a million people and animals. Probably more. Not worth even conversing with you about it. Have a great evening. Plug your ears

[-]

abgc161@reddit

One in a million? Definitely not only 70 people/animals and their owners suffering this week. Regardless, not worth conversing is quite telling. Frankly, for me, people’s severe discomfort outweighs people seeing pretty colours

[-]

Sin201@reddit

Wow, downvoted for offers facts and objective opinions from a neutral standpoint. This is beyond reddit, this is the internet hating anyone that doesn't agree.

Sorry you got downvoted, hopefully people eventually learn to be nice to others and read more than the surface level of comments in the future and we get more people like you. We don't need saints, just normal interactions would do 😔

[-]

abgc161@reddit

Very kind, thanks. The downvotes won’t keep me awake at night, the fireworks might!😉

[-]

natttynoo@reddit

That’s the issue it’s not a few hours a year now. It goes on for weeks. I can understand organised events done professionally but anyone can walk in a supermarket and buy basically an explosive device.

[-]

CoachOld856@reddit

It goes on for weeks.

it doesn't, though. You're massively over exaggerating.

You might have 20 mins spread across an evening, over a week.

A few pops in the distance. get over it lol

[-]

natttynoo@reddit

You do realise not everyone lives in the same place? 😂 Good for you if you only have it for 20 mins we are on night 7 and it will continue all next week.

[-]

CoachOld856@reddit

So you are in an area where the majority of people like fireworks...

You do realise not everyone lives in the same place? 😂

You do realise that not everyone goes to bed at 6pm and breaks into tears at the slightest noise.

[-]

natttynoo@reddit

You do realise others actually give a shit about other people? I know crazy right.

[-]

CoachOld856@reddit

Hmm, you are trying to virtue signal here by giving the impression that you care about other people's feelings, but at the same time, advocating against people's right to have fun and follow a centuries old tradition that the majority of people feel is a vital part of the British culture.

It's completely transparent: you only care about yourself.

[-]

VolcanicBear@reddit

Maybe it's a few pops in the distance from you. You are aware people live in different places, right?

Where I am, it's been relatively sparse tbh.

My sister in inner city Sheffield? Literally weeks of it.

[-]

CoachOld856@reddit

They're acting like there are fireworks being shot at the window 24/7 for weeks.

So, in Sheffield, there are more people that like fireworks than dislike them? What do you want to do?

Let people have some fun and stop trying to suppress a long-standing and greatly loved tradition.

Just put in some earplugs/play some music, not like you need to cower under your bed for weeks lol.

[-]

VolcanicBear@reddit

I'm not saying people should stop them, I sedate the dog I have that is terrified by them, your argument just implied it's the same the country over, which it isn't.

[-]

CoachOld856@reddit

Thanks for mentioning you sedate your dog? Why is that relevant?

oh, I forgot you and your dog are the centre of the universe... everyone needs to stop having fun because you can't train your dog to deal with occasional loud noises

[-]

VolcanicBear@reddit

I mentioned that to clarify why I don't care about bonfire night.

You seem very confused, I only have issue with your "a few pops in the distance" comment, as I reiterated.

Some dogs just can't be trained. Other dog doesn't give a shit, she'll go and watch them.

Take care. Try and pay attention to the words you read.

[-]

CoachOld856@reddit

Take care. Try and pay attention to the words you read.

Think you need to learn to take care and write coherent sentences if that's what you meant lol.

[-]

VolcanicBear@reddit

Look at the Sheffield comment, that's the one you misunderstood and seemed to think was me telling people they shouldn't enjoy fireworks for some reason.

Interactions span further than the last remark someone makes.

[-]

CoachOld856@reddit

that's the one you miswrote.

[-]

VolcanicBear@reddit

Yeah if you can't discern the point being different areas have different amounts of fireworks from the last two sentences of that comment, I'm gonna maintain that's down to your reading comprehension.

Don't get me wrong, I'm hilariously bad at conveying my message but that comment, following on from yours, seems pretty obvious to me.

You can have the last word.

[-]

CoachOld856@reddit

Don't get me wrong, I'm hilariously bad at conveying my message but that comment, following on from yours, seems pretty obvious to me.

case and point

[-]

Sin201@reddit

Conversations go two ways. It seems you think you are the centre of the universe

[-]

CoachOld856@reddit

wrong. I'm not out there on the Internet telling people what they can/ can't do.

Your lack of self-awareness is really concerning.

[-]

Sin201@reddit

I'm not on the internet doing that either.

My self awareness is fine thank you, I often read over comments I've made or message's I've sent and proactively apologise if necessary.

I think you should really consider whether you'd speak to your friends or family in the same way you are now. Try not to be so condescending and spiteful to people you've had no prior interaction with before please 🫤

[-]

CoachOld856@reddit

My self awareness is fine thank you, I often read over comments I've made or message's I've sent and proactively apologise if necessary.

Can't wait for my apology later 😘

[-]

Sin201@reddit

I somehow doubt you'll be getting one. Not like I've argued with you over anything - just pointing out that you should maybe think of others at least partially

[-]

CoachOld856@reddit

I'll let you sleep on it.

If you get any sleep that is... you'll be up all night twitching the curtains and shaking your fists at your neighbours having fun.

[-]

Sin201@reddit

Well if you feel the need to attack me personally and then delete your reply and then not reply anymore, then my point has been made.

I hope you eventually mature, and are able to make your parents proud of you in the future.

Good day

[-]

CoachOld856@reddit

(I didn't delete any comments, you checked the wrong comment).

Take it easy sweet pea, you should stop making life so hard for yourself and be yourself. Stop searching the Internet for identities and be yourself.

✌️

This is the last time I will respond, I don't think it's healthy for you to be on social media.

[-]

Sin201@reddit

I quite enjoy fireworks actually. Have you never talked about something you don't agree with and seen both sides before?

[-]

Sin201@reddit

Anyway let me quote your earlier reply:

Just put in some earplugs/play some music, not like you need to cower under your bed for weeks lol.

You're not any better than anyone else.

Case in point

[-]

CoachOld856@reddit

umm. How am I telling you what you can/ can't do here?

ffs 🙈

[-]

Sin201@reddit

If I have to explain that, I'd just rather point out my original point in commenting. Please try to understand what the person you're arguing is trying to say before arguing

[-]

CoachOld856@reddit

If I have to explain that, I'd just rather point out my original point in commenting.

You can't explain it, because it's not true.

[-]

Spent most of today mountain biking in the Brecon Beacons thanks.

On your mobility scooter?

Just because you’re impressed by pretty lights and bangs doesn’t mean we all are. For some of us we need something a little more entertaining to be amused.

What? like huffing your own farts? fucking snob.

[-]

WatercressEastern680@reddit

ah ur so superior and intelligent for not enjoying fireworks. get over urself and go outside

[-]

Wonderful_Welder_796@reddit

My dog genuinely barks continuously from under the table for the entirety of the firework period. It could last hours. Same is true with thunderstorms.

I get the point of fireworks, but I do wish they were done in the centre of towns, away from general housing.

[-]

KookyNeedleworker595@reddit

But a dog barking all year round, like a previous neighbours of mine, is completely fine, and no restrictions on ownerships of dogs are raised.

You could all go to a dog fair, or a zoo if you wanted to interact with animals, you don't need to be so selfish and cause disruptions to the rest of us with their annoying barking. Are you just thoughtless or do you lack empathy?

You see how complaining about everything will cause society to collapse into a boring nothingness.

[-]

Silly-Canary-916@reddit (OP)

I'm of the same thought, along with limited sales and reduced noise. My dog lies frozen in the hall with his face against the wall for hours this time of year when they are going off. Does that make me want to stop people who are doing something they are legally allowed to do? No. But I do feel sad when I see some of the comments made when it's is dated to mention that not every one loves fireworks

[-]

ISO_3103_@reddit

Becuase people are sick of 1% of the population ruling on freedoms for everyone else. Yes I get it, you have a problem with x because of y. Most of us don't.

[-]

Dogs shit in the street yes...but so do plenty of bloody humans! Just pick the shit up.

[-]

Prince_John@reddit

Ban the sale of fireworks to anyone who fancies them...they're explosives...how is it still a thing?

Because they're perfectly safe when handled by responsible adults and are great fun?

There's lots of ostensibly dangerous activities that we are allowed to do. You can't ban everything that might be dangerous.

[-]

AdThat328@reddit

They aren't all handled by responsible adults...that's one of the biggest problems.

[-]

KookyNeedleworker595@reddit

Just like everything in the world is not always handled by a responsible adult, so time to ban driving, cycling, public transport, planes etc.

[-]

F737NG@reddit

People will always find a way to get fireworks illegally.

But also the fact that ptsd triggers can literally be anything. Crowds, people, smells, objects. We can’t ban every PTSD trigger.

We can absolutely have empathy for these people while also thinking that banning fireworks is an unreasonable demand.

[-]

Able-Brother-7953@reddit

Or people can just buy the silent fireworks, then there is no distress for anyone or wildlife.

[-]

Full_Change_3890@reddit

Wildlife? I mean come on, in the context of this conversation, domestic pets cause far more distress to wildlife than fireworks do. Should we ban pets too?

We can’t and shouldn’t adjust every single part of life to suit a very small minority of people.

You also don’t need cats…

It’s not a case of what’s needed or not that’s not a good argument.

[-]

the_greatsarcasmo@reddit

Do you not realise that indoor cats are a thing? There are a lot of cat owners who agree they should be kept inside, it lengthens their lifespan too.

But that's a separate conversation. You're not actually explaining why people should be allowed to set off explosives relentlessly for weeks and in the middle of the day.

It's annoying, just like people who ride through town on their loud obnoxious dirt bikes, that aren't road legal in other countries.

No one is saying ban then, but they should be kept to public organised displays, for safety if not just the noise. Look up fireworks injuries and tell me you think it's a good idea for anyone to be fucking around with gun powder.

[-]

Full_Change_3890@reddit

Many people on this thread are saying to ban them. I don’t mind restrictions, we already have them and if they need to tighter there’s an argument for that too.

But yes, people are suggesting we ban them. The burden is not on me to justify not banning a cultural tradition that’s happened for 100s of years.

Look up dog injuries 🤷‍♂️ it’s just a bad argument.

[-]

Able-Brother-7953@reddit

You're right, I don't need cats, however, my cats don't explode and scare other animals or people.

By your logic, I should be allowed to keep a lion as a pet, as they are just big cats, and it's other people's problem if they don't like it.

[-]

Full_Change_3890@reddit

Your cats do more damage to wildlife than fireworks do.

It’s your logic not mine that’s flawed. You are arguing because you have PTSD we should ban fireworks. If I had PTSD with cats a trigger do we ban cats?

[-]

Able-Brother-7953@reddit

Again, I never said they should be banned.

My cats are indoor only to protect them as well as the local wildlife.

I am aware of my triggers, and stay clear of them where possible.

If cats were a problem for me, I wouldn't have them, or visit a house where they lived. Nor would I expect people to parade them in front of me, just because they can.

What is not possible, is to stay away from loud explosions, just because someone has no awareness outside of themselves, and feels the need to blow something up.

We all have fears, and by and large, they are easy to stay away from, except, when they are forced upon you.

Feel free to make an argument as to why fireworks launched in residential areas should be noisy, when there are plenty of silent ones out there, as well as organised displays.

[-]

Full_Change_3890@reddit

Right but there are plenty of outdoor cats - so are they not being paraded out in front of me? Might seem silly but there are people with extreme dog phobias, shall we ban taking dogs for walks to appease them?

Or if my trigger is someone’s perfume are they selfish for wearing that perfume? It’s not essential right? How can they justify wearing it when it’s making someone else unhappy?

It’s coming across as a little narcissistic to suggest your personal trigger is more important than any else’s and that society only has to adjust for your personal trigger. Not only that but you’re suggesting people are setting off fireworks intentionally to bother you? Do you really think that’s what’s happening here?

Once again, just because something isn’t essential in life doesn’t mean it should banned.

[-]

Able-Brother-7953@reddit

Unless people are taking their pets into your neighbour hood and shouting about them, then no.

You seem to have some difficulty in reading.

As I said, I am aware of my triggers, and stay clear of them where possible, as most people do. The ones I cant avoid, are those that I am forced to endure when I am inside my own home.

Where did I say that my triggers are more important that any others? Or that the fireworks are set off just to bother me?

Again, I have never said they should be banned, there are plenty of silent ones out there, as well as organised displays.

Still waiting on why you think they should be as loud as they are in residential areas.

[-]

Full_Change_3890@reddit

Its not my place to justify the existence of a cultural tradition. Its your place to justify why it shouldn't, which you have failed to do. There is no possible way to ban all PTSD triggers which I have also already explained. You are suggesting we should only ban yours, I believe that simply answers both of your questions. You also keep saying they shouldn't be banned while saying they should in the same sentence.

I don't think you understand how phobias work if you think its the shouting about it thats the problem and not the mere presence of the dog. There are plenty of dog walkers in every British neighbourhood.

We all have our crosses to bear, and this is yours, not everyone else's. I hope you get over your PTSD, but forcing society to tip toe around your triggers is not the way to do it.

[-]

AndrewSChapman@reddit

I'm sorry in advance but you've triggered me with this. I'm so sick of any serious discussion about fireworks having people drag out the "ban domestic animals" strawman. It's a bullshit tactic, please stop doing it.

And yes wildlife! You don't own the planet. Nor does humanity. We need to stop acting like self entitled brats.

Animals shouldn't have to live with unnecessary fear just because people are bored. And that's what we're talking about here. Just boredom and having a laugh. There is nothing necessary about it.

Fireworks being let off by randoms is pure bollocks. It panics people, it triggers people with PTSD, it scares the living shit out of animals, it creates a toxic soup in the air and, it is relentless for weeks at a time.

Let's have a few public displays at known times and stop the rest.

[-]

Full_Change_3890@reddit

Ban domestic animals isn’t a strawman here you’re using that word incorrectly, if you are concerned about wildlife then domestics pets are a far greater issue than fireworks.

Domestic cats KILL 270 million wild animals every year in the U.K. including many endangered species. Saying that’s irrelevant in the context of bleating about how fireworks startle them for an instant is frankly laughable. There is no need to own a cat just like there is no need to let off fireworks.

We cannot ban every PTSD trigger, I’ve explained that extensively, please go back and read.

Asking to ban something you just personally don’t like is pure narcissism.

[-]

Fit_Champion667@reddit

You’re right in that you need to overcome avoidance, but it should be done in a managed way. I’ve a panic disorder & do graded exposure with a support worker through the NHS, over the past week we’ve went down a few steps because of the fireworks. I’ve been given extra medication to take. Your argument fails to acknowledge how bad it can be to throw someone in at the deep end.

[-]

mand658@reddit

There's a bit of a difference between a half and hour professionally organised display at 6pm and random pops going off all night every night for a fortnight stressing out pets and keeping kids (and adults) awake...

[-]

bUddy284@reddit

There's already a law against loud noises between 11pm - 7am.

And I have ZERO issue with organised events by trained professionals...

But just because something HAS been acceptable doesn't mean it should REMAIN acceptable. That is a daft argument.

The fact is we at the very least are more concerned about animal welfare than we were 20 years ago and we also have more understanding of the importance of sleep especially in young kids... Both of which are going to make people less tolerant of continuous disorganised fireworks going off.

And just beyond didn't hear about people being bothered by it in the past doesn't mean there weren't people bothered by it.

[-]

undercovergloss@reddit

But if we’re trying to cater to everyone’s wants and needs. What about the people who have severe anxiety and cannot leave their homes to go to a display so have fireworks at home. I’m disabled and physically cannot go stand at a firework display so I visit my mums home for fireworks.

[-]

gemunicornvr@reddit

I am disabled to, but don't do that because of our wild animals that I care more about than myself

[-]

mand658@reddit

Sometimes peoples situations mean they have to miss out...

I suffer from social anxiety and have not been able to attend displays in the past...

So I didn't go.

The one I attend now, there are plenty of people with camping chairs etc, I've seen wheelchair users there.

The displays should be accessable.

[-]

chronicallylaconic@reddit

This is the endless conflation that happens in this conversation unfortunately. Either you like fireworks everywhere all the time or you hate them everywhere all the time, and there's no middle ground allowed. And Helen Lovejoys everywhere pleading with us to think of the children, in various ways.

My mum held such an iron grip on me and my brother as a child that "setting off fireworks yourself" was as likely as "piloting a nuclear submarine yourself", so I thus don't have those same tender memories of watching children play with explosions that seem to so convince the pro-firework crowd that their kids should be able to explode stuff anywhere and any time they like.

I loved fireworks as a kid, of course, but I only ever went to organised displays. Apparently this has ruined me forever. At least I finally have something on which to blame my lack of accomplishment. Thank you fireworks!

[-]

gemunicornvr@reddit

I mean yeah I was the same I didn't let them off in my garden, my parents would also make out if I did that I would immediately turn to ashes and die

[-]

Oh I did, but now studying ecosystems at uni, I know how absolutely fucked up it is for wildlife and that alone should be enough to ban it, considering our ecosystem in the UK is hanging by a thread as it is and we literally need it to survive

[-]

Able-Brother-7953@reddit

Very true, I loved firework displays as a kid, but that was before I spent 6 months in a war zone getting mortars launched at us almost every night.

It's a good job then that I don't expect, nor want worship for doing my duty.

All I ask is that I get to spend my nights in peace, something that would not be possible if it wasn't for our military, past and present.

And again, I am not against fireworks, but there are plenty of displays people can go to, and there are silent ones as well.

As you said, this isn't America, we don't need to have the loudest possible explosions.

[-]

Saulrubinek@reddit

This country has largely been safe for close to a thousand years. The armed forces of this country have done far more harm than good over the centuries.

But honestly I don’t want to keep arguing with you. I feel sorry for you.

I’m sorry your life is fucked up because of what happened to you. I believe the government owes you a great deal of mental health support so you can move beyond what has happened to you.

I don’t agree with you. I feel the noise is part of the enjoyment and has been in this country for hundreds of years.

But I don’t feel the argument takes us personally anywhere.

[-]

Able-Brother-7953@reddit

Don't feel sorry for me. I would do it all again if I had my time over again.

All I am looking for is for a single good reason for these noisy fireworks to be launched in residential areas, when there are plenty of organised events.

[-]

RequirementFull6659@reddit

This country has largely been safe for close to a thousand years.

??? Take like..one history course. Just ever. World Wars 1 and 2 not ring any bells? how about more contemporary like the attempted Spaniard Invasion? Should we have let Napoleon win at Waterloo?

[-]

Saulrubinek@reddit

Sorry you are misinterpreting me. I don’t mean to say the British armed forces have never done anything to protect the country.

To clarify on the thousand years in all of those examples however no foreign troops made it to British soil. The opponents were all stopped before they made it here and in all examples Britain was defending itself.

What I am saying and was saying to the other person is what good came from the British armed forces travelling to other lands and waging war upon them beyond just stealing their wealth. What good was the war in Afghanistan to Britain, how did this country improve because of it? How are we better from destroying Iraq?

[-]

Able-Brother-7953@reddit

10 second Google search gave me this:

Normans: The Normans invaded Britain in 1066, which is known as the Battle of Hastings.

French: The French launched large invasion bids against England three times between 1385 and 1387, but failed each time.

Spanish: The Spanish Armada attempted to invade England in 1588, but was defeated by storms and the English fleet.

Scots: The Scots invaded England in 1640, 1644, and 1648.

Dutch: The Dutch raided the Medway and Felixstowe Landguard in 1667.

Duke of Monmouth: The Duke of Monmouth and his supporters landed in England in 1685.

William III of Orange: William III of Orange landed in England in 1688, which is known as the Glorious Revolution.

The last substantial invasion of Britain was in February 1797 in the town of Fishguard, West Wales.

I don't know what life would be like just now had we not had our armed forces, but we wouldn't be typing this in English.

The law state you can only let them off between 7am and 11pm. On any day of the year. With a further addendum to NYE when it's any time until 1 am. My suggestion was to restrict the days to the 5th and the closest Saturday.

You are partially correct re dates you can buy them. They are only for general sale from supermarkets and high street vendors etc at certain times, (from 15 October to 10 November, then between Christmas and new year.) You can still buy them from a listed supplier at any time of the year. But my point on the post restrictions was to only allow silent ones for general sales.

Yeah, but then most people grow up and realise that the only people who like lights in the sky and big bangs are those without fully developed brains.

[-]

fosjanwt@reddit

kids are pretty stupid though. they'd also love candy for dinner

[-]

_-id-_@reddit

The professional displays are a lot less of a problem than your neighbors being able to buy fireworks and light them at any time next to you.

Many countries have banned the sale of fireworks to the public. UK will follow at some point.

[-]

stonyfanboy21@reddit

"Oh, you probably loved it ss a kid when you just liked the pretty lights and hadn't developed empathy or understanding of the wider effects on animals, people or the environment, so therefore youre a hypocrite" is an absolutey wild take tbh

[-]

LitmusVest@reddit

I think it's more the point that so many posts are 'setting fireworks off unpredictably for 2 weeks is a new thing'.

worotan@reddit

Apart from you and all the people ITT agreeing with each other about how it’s unfair for all those dweebs to criticise good honest ordinary people for using fireworks.

[-]

IAM_THE_LIZARD_QUEEN@reddit

Where did I say anything like that?

[-]

perfect_thankyou@reddit

It could do. Seeing wider concerns snd personal experiences does affect opinions.

[-]

Bacon4Lyf@reddit

It will not

[-]

worotan@reddit

People are discussing a problem in society, on a discussion site specifically for people to talk about their society.

Just because you don’t want to think outside your bubble, doesn’t mean the world is just the way you want it to be.

[-]

I've got PTSD and loud bangs are really difficult for me. I'm straight back in trauma mode. It makes me incredibly unwell this time of year, I have to take extra medication, and sometimes need to be in the hospital.

Im sure that's true for a lot of people, but I'm too unwell to do anything about it. I end up living nocturnally, because I'll be laid in bed, shaking all evening, full of adrenaline. It's absolute hell.

The pandemic, seems to have made people a bit wierd. People have got used to being online, where they can say awful things and be very aggressive, without getting a slap, like you would in the real world. It's awful. And, people casually misusing the words, triggered and trauma really don't help, but that's another discussion.

[-]

Savings_Plankton_315@reddit

I have ptsd too and people are so willingly uneducated about it. I wish more people cared. That's what gets me on top of triggering my trauma, even far away fireworks that don't scare me are still a reminder that people just do not give a shit about people who are struggling. If I told them their "fun" made me and others literally physically unwell they'd laugh in my face. I just hate that this world is full of those people.

For anyone wondering, there's a video of Jennette McCurdy not realising how loud the bang of a popper would be and getting absolutely terrified, which is a good example of how ptsd can affect how people react to loud scares.

[-]

Ok_Emotion9841@reddit

Do you think people shouldn't do fireworks because there are people with PTSD?

[-]

plant-cell-sandwich@reddit

Outside of organised displays, yes.

[-]

Ok_Emotion9841@reddit

Why

[-]

plant-cell-sandwich@reddit

Because it's much easier to plan and prepare around something that you know is going to happen.

So you could not even name 5, named one that is already illegal if it's half the decibel level of a firework, and then explained why none of them would actually affect someone in the same way as a firework.

How does this help your argument that fireworks are fine because there are similarly loud noises that people hear every day?

Because people are in their homes when they hear their neighbours set off fireworks. Yes I brought it up, and you are the one saying people being in homes isn't relevant, when whole point is people being disturbed in their homes.

What noise limits are considered disturbing? As you mention so many of my 'facts' are wrong, can you provide the facts about these noise limits.

A car making noise at 75db is illegal because it is a disturbance.

https://www.leosdrivingschool.com/all-you-need-to-know-about-loud-car-exhausts-in-uk/

should be 'name something you could hear throughout the year'

are exceeded in every day life all the time

You said fireworks are okay because noises that loud are heard in every day life. However, you can't back up your claim. Now you've moved the goalposts and are saying that fireworks are okay because you can hear something of the same noise level throughout the year. None of the things you mentioned are louder than fireworks, so please go ahead and tell me some things "throughout the year" that you can hear to back up your argument.

Just so you know, my point isn't wrong. To me fireworks ARE ok regardless because that's my opinion. As you are entitled to yours.

You're allowed an opinion on fireworks. You are allowed to like fireworks. Just stop pretending you have any logic or facts behind those opinions. You think it's okay for members of the public to set off fireworks because because you like fireworks, not because you have any facts to back up that it's actually okay for that to happen.

You are not willing to have a proper conversation, you just admitted that regardless you will still think fireworks are okay. So you are unwilling to see other people's perspectives or change your opinion if proven wrong. If you did have a good argument I would change my mind. But you don't. All you have is your own enjoyment of fireworks which means nothing in an argument, because liking something doesn't mean it should be legal.

You brought up supermarkets when we were talking about members of the public. You asked this question to back up your argument:

Should shops not be busy because someone with anxiety wants to go out?

And my reply was: shops already have quiet hours because disabled people asked for them. They believed they were entitled to shop without disturbance, asked for it, and got it. You brought up supermarkets in an attempt to say that people should be allowed to light fireworks because supermarkets won't accommodate for people with anxiety. But supermarkets do accommodate for people with anxiety.

You can ask people to not do something, sure, but there is no right for them to agree. That would be a very entitled person indeed.

If people weren't entitled to not be disturbed then there wouldn't already be laws for noise levels. So yes, people are entitled to not be disturbed. My solution is not to ask members of the public to not light fireworks. It's to make them illegal for members of the public to fire them the same way it's illegal for cars to be over 74db.

Again, nothing you have said backs up your argument for fireworks. They are a noise disturbance way above the decibel limit of anything else you hear, trigger people's PTSD and other mental illnesses/disabilities, distress pets, hurt and kill wildlife and pollute the environment. The downsides outweigh the pros, so they should be banned.

[-]

Ok_Emotion9841@reddit

When someone is in their homes and hears a firework the bloody TV is often louder, what are you on about??

So your 'fact' is wrong. Ok so 75db, in the 'test' is illegal which at full chat near by is obviously a lot louder but regardless, what db do people experience in their homes from fireworks? A lot less then 75db

Tell me exactly what db a firework is inside your home and I will tell you plenty of things you experience all the time that are louder.... See how this goes?

I havnt personally stated if I like fireworks or not... You are assuming again. Just because I can see both sides of the argument doesn't mean I prefer one or the other. It's very clear your side, but don't assume mine.

Regardless of any point anyone makes, yes I think they are ok. There are many reasons, but that's my opinion. It doesn't mean I am part of one group or another, it doesn't mean I can't relate to one group or another but that's just my opinion. If you think I'm a particular type of person because of that it says a lot more about you then it does me. I havnt said I liked fireworks, again, your assumption. Liking something doesn't make it legal. It being legal makes it legal or don't you understand that?

The shopping comment was refering to general public not trades. This was ambiguous and should have been clearer but the point is very much valid. To break it down more simply. If person X said to person y, don't do something simply because I don't like it, there are many questions to be asked not just person y is wrong.

I'm glad you brought up the entitled and noise laws again. Fireworks are LEGAL, which I'm not sure if you are aware, mean they are aloud to be used whether you think they are loud or not... If you think they should be banned then great, but they aren't currently.

[-]

Savings_Plankton_315@reddit

When someone is in their homes and hears a firework the bloody TV is often louder,

This is false, a loud tv is around 60db and a firework heard from inside a house is 110db. Please tell me "plenty of things" that are louder than 110db measured from inside your house.

[-]

Ok_Emotion9841@reddit

You have no evidence to just say 'false' and it be a blanket statement. So a firework going off 5 mikes away is 110db? Ok so everyone nearby has ruptured ear drums and internal bleeding? What a load of rubbish.

A normal conversation is 50-60db, how can you honestly say a loud TV is the same. Watch a good film with some gunshots etc and it's definitely louder. Meanwhile those fireworks going off may been seen but not heard over it.

I had fireworks going off across the street just yesterday and my baby sleeping soundly next to me.

They are not limited though. You can set them off any day of the year if you wish.

[-]

Ok_Emotion9841@reddit

They are hard to purchase year round but yes you can. Although a lot of people argue they should be banned all together!

[-]

Ayanhart@reddit

You're talking on public social media, it's not a DM. Others are allowed to reply to you too.

[-]

Ok_Emotion9841@reddit

Yeh I know, everyone wants to add their 2p and they can 😊

[-]

Savings_Plankton_315@reddit

I would like people to not make my medical condition harder, yes. The same way I would like people to not park on the pavement and block wheelchair users or not touch people's servoce dogs and distract them from helping their owners.

If it were only that reason I would suggest silent fireworks. They're pretty and I like them.

However even silent fireworks are still explosions, which can be used to harm others, and are pollution for no good reason.

Usually, children are taught at a young age by their parents that even though something might be fun, like screaming as loud as you can, or drawing on the walls, if it hurts others or your environment you don't do it. Some people's parents fail to get that message across.

Savings_Plankton_315@reddit

Yeah I wish there was more education about it. Any ptsd can be triggered by noise. Sitting indoors feeling scared, angry, reliving your worst traumatic experiences while knowing people are laughing at you for "being sensitive" ..it sucks. sorry friend.

[-]

Alster5000@reddit

"Any PTSD can be triggered by noise" this is a single minded view on PTSD and is incorrect. My PTSD and a few colleagues isn't triggered by noise at all. It's certain words, a video online filmed in a particular way, a certain type of 4x4 parked innocently in a car park, certain types of music or chanting, particular visuals that happen a surprising amount in mainstream media in places you won't expect. I have to look up parents guides online for every new film I watch.

They make quiet regular fireworks too. They're far better for young kids.

[-]

Tumtitums@reddit

Needless to say it's not just ptsd. People with mental health issues like schizophrenia or anxiety can be set off down the path of having a bad episode due to fireworks

[-]

Savings_Plankton_315@reddit

Absolutely! Thanks for adding

[-]

klauskinski79@reddit

It's just we got - put into house arrest for 2 years - lost a huge amount of wealth through the rampant inflation rhat was caused by the lockdowns - if you look at total excess deaths countries with less lockdowns actually had less deaths since 2020 even if they initially had higher rates. Locking down people is just not healthy I guess?

klauskinski79@reddit

Man now you made me feel like a total dickhead for reacting so strongly when you feel very unwell. lol.

But yeah I feel like compassion has been weaponized politically in recent decades in many directions. And used to force people to do something they don't want to do which humans never have liked. And over the last couple years there has been a pushback especially online against it. But as usual pushbacks often are overshooting as well and bring out bad things in people like me lol.

Again sorry.

[-]

nitenite79@reddit

My husband’s PTSD gets triggered by the fireworks. I’ve seen it in IRL during a festival where they had fireworks at the end of the last act. Seeing him a 6’4 man reduced to tears is heart breaking. During Diwali and bonfire night we have to stay inside. He also makes the cats stay in too as he scared for them.

[-]

Prior_echoes_@reddit

Do make the cats stay in. Always keep the cats in around fireworks.

We always dilligently kept ours in on the 5th, and any Friday/Saturday that could be the "event" night for the 5th.

But one night some d*ickhead let one off a couple of nights before Halloween. BEFORE HALLOWEEN. I was home alone, I heard it, thought "crap, where are the cats" and next thing you know a neighbour is weeping on my doorstep because the cat had been on the other side of the (quiet village) road and had bolted out in front of the car (towards the house) at the bang.

Please look into a channel called 'Relax my Dog' on YouTube. They have videos for animals/ dog who are anxious, scared of fireworks etc.

Have you asked your vet about maybe getting some valium for your dog?

If you can, set up your dog's bed next to the washing machine, and turn it on all night. That can help to down out the noise.

[-]

Disastrous_Ad_754@reddit

Your dog trigger stacks. Uh huh.

[-]

Silly-Canary-916@reddit (OP)

Yes, he does. He's a foreign rescue dog and there has been research that foreign street dogs have their brains differently wired to 'normal dogs' due to experiences and genetics passed down to them. I've seen it happen and been working to improve it for three years

[-]

Bindaloo@reddit

AmyCClarke@reddit

My dog really struggles with fireworks too, and we’ve found some soundproof headphones for him which really help in addition to the usual treats/training/classical music, so that might be worth trying too if you haven’t already. It’s basically a snood with soundproof padding.

[-]

Magickst@reddit

This 3rd para is soo spot on, it does feel like people speak and act w/o any regard or impunity and it's really sad that it's post a time where in previous eras communities and behaviours would've gotten better.

[-]

Owster4@reddit

I don't think that was a result of the pandemic. It has always been a thing where people are overly rude and aggressive behind the screen.

[-]

ProfessionalAgent953@reddit

Yeah, maybe so, other people have said that too. I think that's probably right. But, it does seem to have leaked out into the real world now. That was more my observation I think.

[-]

Coraldiamond192@reddit

See, everyone blames the pandemic but I doubt that's the sole cause for every little bit of bad behaviour either online or whilst people are driving.

I would argue that its always been bad but there's probably been more people online if anything which in turn has increased exposure to what they see. The annominity doesn't help of course.

I avoid political subs for that reason.

[-]

Substantial-Newt7809@reddit

They blame the pandemic for people spending more time online and being more likely to fall in to the behavior of being an unchecked cunt. Which is correct, there was a noteworthy uptick in all online communities and a lot more people became "terminally online."

[-]

I don’t have PTSD but have a panic disorder & I’m in fight or flight constantly too anticipating the next firework. I’ve jolted awake a few times. Also taking extra medication for this week.

Sad to think how many other conditions could be exacerbated by them.

I’m not against them completely. I just think there should be set ‘events’.

[-]

CookieAndLeather@reddit

Interesting that you think physical assault is the correct response to words.

[-]

ProfessionalAgent953@reddit

It's doesn't say it's correct anywhere in my post. It just says in the real world, people being aggressive, often get a slap. And, people being aggressive online, do not get slaps for being aggressive and rude.

[-]

sjpllyon@reddit

Yeah I too have CPTSD and loud noises can be rather difficult for me too. I will say not as bad as some, if I can see the fireworks going off (as in seeing it go up and anticipating them) I'm fine. If I can't see them they certainly make me jump and on edge, even got cought out on Halloween at a party for not expecting them.

Out of curiosity and if you don't mind answering what medication are you on? As I'm not on anything at the moment and it's incredibly hard. The breathing techniques and the ilk only do so much and I found that SSRI set of the non epileptic seizures. I have given medical cannabis some serious thought but I wouldn't be able to afford to go private. I'm just at point where I don't know what else I can do, I know I need something.

And yeah I too hate people using medical conditions to describe their feelings. They are allowed to have those feelings but stubbing your toe didn't give you PTSD Carol.

[-]

ProfessionalAgent953@reddit

I'm happy to talk through this in private, if you'd like to dm me.

[-]

HAH-PAH@reddit

lol

[-]

mycatiscalledFrodo@reddit

My brother locks himself in the downstairs toilet or sleeps under the table, he had a bad time of it a few months ago at work when there was an unexpected loud noise and this year has been particularly tough.

[-]

I'm just annoyed that we've gone from bonfire night, to bonfire week. Seems like there are people setting them off for the whole week between Halloween and bonfire night, I like fireworks as much as the next person but it gets a bit boring after a while.

[-]

ScarletHorizons@reddit

We're on our 4th/5th day of fireworks, and we're expecting it to continue until well after next weekend. Then we'll have them around Christmas and some more around New Year's. I miss the excited wait for when it was time for the fireworks; it's just constant now.

[-]

cutielemon07@reddit

Only 4/5 days? Lucky you. It’s been going on for about two weeks for me. My cats are both indoor cats, but I hardly see them because they’re too busy cowering under or behind a piece of furniture. Daytime as well as night time, for reasons I can’t understand.

[-]

beanscommacool@reddit

Same. Our neighbourhood is notorious for fireworks. Have been going off around here for three or four weeks now, and will likely continue til the weekend.

There's a big plot of grass at the back of the car park to my estate, seems they're setting them off there which also has lines of trees and lots of cats around, so I know it ain't good for the wildlife and it constantly smells and is foggy around the estate as well

[-]

Theratchetnclank@reddit

I live in bradford and honestly we have them all year round at 2-3 in the morning because of weddings, anti social use and whatever else let alone bonfire week/christmas ect.

[-]

ReplicatedSun@reddit

Exactly, going to an actual fireworks display and seeing a decent show was so good when I was younger. Now it's just people buying cheap nasty fireworks that just fly up and bang with a slight flash and setting them off randomly.

fezzuk@reddit

Diwali

[-]

Prior_echoes_@reddit

Yeah this is very much my problem with it.

5th? Fine. The closest Friday/Saturday? I'll take it.

To be entirely fair bonfire night often coincides with Diwali, and many organised displays will be on a weekend near bonfire night rather than the 5th itself. As the old rhyme goes

Vehlin@reddit

Some of the best Diwali displays I’ve seen have been very muted in terms of sound. The crack and the light are made by different powders in the firework, you can have huge starbursts that barely make a pop when they go off.

[-]

TurbulentData961@reddit

I wanna see that , i spent my whole time outside with earplugs on back from work today I was shocked how loud a display was from a house diagonal to where i was walking .

[-]

Bigtallanddopey@reddit

The stretching out of the event is the thing that gets me. They don’t bother me one bit, I go to bed after most of them have finished and I sleep through the rest. However, I now have two young children and it’s an added annoyance at bedtime when they are dosing off and then there is a huge bang and they wake back up again. It’s not the end of the world, but it is annoying.

Pets are enormously more damaging to the environment than fireworks. Think about all that greenhouse gas needed to provide pet food

The risk of being mauled by dangerous dogs any day of the year in public is far higher than the (manageable) risk of being injured by fireworks you voluntarily go to see.

Ban pets AND fireworks! Or ban neither and let people make their own choices.

[-]

Resident-Rhubarb8372@reddit

I have bunnies who are bizarrely ok with fireworks but it breaks my heart thinking about all the wee terrified wild ones dealing with this chaos 🥲

[-]

Because the UK government and by extension a vocal few absolutely ADORE infringing on peoples freedom and desire to ban anything that is in anyway controversial to ANY minority group or subset of people. Like.. life is hard wear a f*cking helmet, its one day of the year (granted some nobs will let of fireworks weeks before and after) but deal with it, grow a backbone and move on. It's once a year not relentlessly. Pets will get over it.

[-]

Dull_Ratio_5383@reddit

I think is because most of society is fed up with people trying to ban everything because it affects someone somewhere.

I love fireworks and if it bothers someone else that's their problem, not mine. It may sound harsh but that's how freedom works.

[-]

vanil1@reddit

Lack of empathy certainly isn't uncharacteristic of people in this country

[-]

peterwillson@reddit

Fuck fireworks.

[-]

Substantial-Skill-76@reddit

To be honest, I find it hilariously ironic that dogs are also a sound nuisance, but for the whole year not just a few weeks in autumn.

Every other post on Facebook is people complaining about dogs barking all night.

Karma, or something like that

[-]

MrAnon86@reddit

Fireworks are fucking shite honestly. A massive and well-organised display can be really good but they shouldn’t just sell them to anybody.

[-]

SarahP27@reddit

They’ve been going on for well over a week in my area and it just seems excessive this year, whenever anyone posts on the Facebook group about their pet being scared, they just get berated and laughed at, I’ve seen some awful comments. I think the sale of fireworks should be banned to the public personally.

[-]

Visual-Necessary1745@reddit

I have bad anxiety and traumas so I hate fireworks so much. Can't people understand I can't just wear ear defenders because they hurt my head and it doesn't completely block out the noise. And the little ear buds are even worse. I have sensory issues and the texture is horrible in my ear. And yes, my poor cats meow and hide under the beds. Poor creatures don't deserve such noise. I think silent fireworks should be the only legal fireworks.

[-]

InternationalDepth55@reddit

Because people are tired of living in a cotton wool generation full of safe spaces and hyper sensitivity. If you're not autistic then you've got adhd, ptsd or some other shit that you think means everyone should tip toe around your preferences. Not you personally but it's all you read about is ooh I've got this so do you mind not doing that as it triggers me.

I've even saw people advertising quiet firework displays. It's getting beyond a joke the level of pandering and glad handing going on these days. We are creating a nation of soft people with rainbow hair and they/them pronouns.

[-]

scrufflesby@reddit

This is a difficult conversation. We could ban fireworks? They are unnecessary as they serve as nothing more than light (and expensive) entertainment. They affect pets and, like other commenters, people who are sensitive to them.

On the flipside, we'd be banning another social thing for the sake of the few (harsh though that might sound).

I'm close to impartial to fireworks. They're alright. If they didn't exist anymore, it probably wouldn't bother me much, but they do have a place. It pisses me off that they are used at every given opportunity. It should be a public disorder to set them off anytime other than 5th November (Bonfire night) or New Years Eve. The only reason that they're allowed more than that is commercialism and enforcement. We can at least try to keep it to just 2 nights on every year and that means that pet owners and others affected can make arrangements to account for it. If need be, I'd rather there were measures put in place to account for those affected. Cousin Jenny's 19th isn't a reason. Same with Halloween, it's one night, not a week, not a month. Christmas is in December, not September. I don't want to be sick of Mariah Carey when we breeze into November.

Where's the social etiquette gone?

[-]

Kcufasu@reddit

After a while it's get tiring hearing everyone complaining about everything. We've celebrated guy fawkes night for centuries. It's once a year. Compared to most countries fireworks are pretty rare here. Even if you happen to live somewhere with lots of displays it's a few hours Friday/Saturday this weekend and a few hours on the 5th. Maybe a few mins on the first of January for new year and that's it for the whole year. Of all the problems in the country and things that could be an issue to someone, moaning about fireworks is just ridiculous. If your dog happens to be scared of them give them a cuddle and they will have forgotten about the whole thing within an hour... There are actual issues in the world and hearing a few bangs for a few minutes once a year just isn't one of them

[-]

thenaysmithy@reddit

I hear then more or less every night/day, sometimes one or two, sometimes for half an hour.

Lots of Muslim weddings have them for some reason(perhaps a cultural thing, in the middle east they fire off guns at the end of a wedding), and I live in an area where Muslims outnumber everyone else.

They should just be banned apart from insured and organised displays, the amount of shitty half burnt out fireworks I used to find in the fields was obscene. Same with mylar balloons, they need banning too becausebof the damage they do to animals and costs they put on the farmers.

Just because it doesn't affect you doesn't mean everyone should have free reign that's selfish af. All the animals out there dying or miscarrying due to this senseless shite is unreal.

I remember last year I had to tell a bride and groom that they couldn't have fireworks at their wedding, which was the week lambing started. They threw a fit because they had paid for them without consulting the venue. Our outdoor area backed straight onto the field where one of the farms did their lambing, and the local village would have lost their minds! They threatened to have it elsewhere so I just said I would be happy to cancel it for them 4 months before the wedding...

People are inconsiderate, the world doesn't revolve around their enjoyment, and you have to take everyone into account around you. We live around other people not alone and isolated.

Want to be hyper individualistic and selfish? Fuck off to the US where its encourage to treat everyone else as less than human.

[-]

Kcufasu@reddit

Oh wow, this really triggered you lol. And you're really not helping yourself by starting by blaming muslims (racism), then going on to say how you proudly stopped a couple's wedding plans and end by saying you think everyone else is hyper individualistic by enjoy community events when clearly you're the one with the issue

[-]

thenaysmithy@reddit

Triggered? Nah, just explaining why we should think of other people.

It's not racism to point out that a certain religious group tends to have more firework displays at weddings, my dude. Nor was I blaming anyone, it exists within the rules, we should change the rules. That's a weird thing to say.

Yeah, proudly stopped a wedding from forcing loads of sheep to miscarry so they could have a load of fireworks at midnight in a rural area on a Sunday.... I think that's being responsible, considerate about everyone around the business. But hey, you try slapping a firework display up in lambing season. See how far it gets you.

I think you should reread my comment, dude. I thought I'd been pretty clear. I didn't mention community events being hyper individualistic, I said the attitude is. I also said we should only have publicly organised displays.

It's selfish. Simple. Just own it. You don't need to make stuff up.

[-]

Kcufasu@reddit

The "other people" seem to be you. You're writing entire essays on why everyone should cater to exactly what you want and then complaining everyone else is individualistic for opposing those things only you want

[-]

thenaysmithy@reddit

Nah, I'm clearly stating my position and explaining it.

You're just thinking about you liking the big bangs. No get rid of big bangs. I'll let you dribble on.

[-]

AnotherGreenWorld1@reddit

I love bonfire night and fireworks however it’s not just celebrated on 5th November when it should be … it started round our end on 26th October and it’s getting really stressful for my dog … they’ll probably still be having bonfire parties til the 10th November.

People are taking the piss with it.

Just celebrate it on 5th November when it should be.

[-]

Of_Commodities@reddit

That has nothing do with Bonfire night, it's about Diwali.

Half the people bitching about this are bitching about the wrong holiday.

[-]

No_Contribution_5871@reddit

Yea the 8 Hindus in town are definitely the 20 teenagers throwing them in horse fields this last week

[-]

NiceCornflakes@reddit

You live in a village. Go and tell them to stop.

[-]

No_Contribution_5871@reddit

Irrelevant. I live in a town. They were caught by the police.

Out of any country I’ve spent a lot of time in we barely have any fireworks. In Thailand they’re setting off fireworks constantly all year for whatever reason. Central America they set off ones that sound like IEDs in the middle of the day. In India they go mad for Diwali and throw firecrackers inside restaurants we were in. In Germany they have a huge tradition over new years and people were happily letting their preteen kids out on the street with a bag full of fireworks to throw at trams in Berlin. People were throwing large firecrackers off balconies at you walking past. The fireworks they were letting off at midday for new years was more than our midnight.

People act like a few fireworks the weekend before the 5th is somehow like operation desert storm. I was very hungover so could have done without them but that’s just my issue to deal with so other people can have fun

[-]

RainbowDissent@reddit

that’s just my issue to deal with so other people can have fun

There are many things that upset/scare people. You’re right. And no, it is not feasible or even sensible to restrict everything that someone could possibly be afraid of- but I never suggested that, that would be ridiculous.

[-]

WatercressEastern680@reddit

that’s the first time uve tried to explain the difference so idk wtf ur talking about several. and they do damage the environment/litter with their shit. the fire point ok fair enough, but they also have other dangers fireworks don’t like attacks. and now ur ignoring ur entire main point which was ptsd and affects on ppl lmao. at the end of the day neither of them are actually going to get restricted, but i just tried to point out ur hypocrisy which ur stil choosing to ignore, simply because u personally don’t like fireworks yet u do dogs. u wouldn’t be saying the same thing if u had ptsd from dogs or disliked them, yet u use that as a main point for fireworks to boost ur reasoning. and final point, u also stil haven’t explained why the points about dogs (that u didnt have a counter to such as ptsd and fear) don’t matter, but the same points for fireworks do, even though fireworks are a lot less prevalent and affect a lot less people. u think the world revolves around u and only what u think should matter, with no empathy for other minorities clearly, only when it agrees with ur agenda. at least im honest and say i have no empathy for any minorities and the general public should be put first.

[-]

Greenmedic2120@reddit

I have said those points at least twice by now. Dog poo doesn’t damage the environment 😂 every wild animal poos so why would a dog poo be worse haha. Fireworks cause litter. I don’t even dislike fireworks, I’m neutral personally. They’re pretty and everything, but the impact on the environment (as well as other things like pets) just doesn’t seem a worthwhile payoff.

[-]

boudicas_shield@reddit

This simply isn’t true. My husband is afraid of dogs due to being attacked as a child, and he’s fine with smaller dogs but petrified of large ones. A growling, nipping chihuahua doesn’t have the ability to rip out his throat. They’re annoying but not a real threat.

The two gigantic breeds heavier than both of us combined that were off lead and stalking around us, lunging and growling, during a walk a few months ago were significantly more dangerous to us, and my husband was rightfully terrified. The owners refused to leash them or call them off, either.

We don’t know your dog, we don’t trust your dog. A big dog has the ability to seriously hurt us if it attacks. A yappy little chihuahua is a nuisance but isn’t going to kill us if it comes at us.

[-]

Greenmedic2120@reddit

Like I’ve elaborated on in other comments, it depends entirely on person with the phobia/trauma. I’m scared of small dogs but not big ones, because I’ve had bad experiences with small ones. A small dog is just as capable of a pretty damaging bite/threat. Other people I know are scared of dogs in general- it all depends on the person.

[-]

boudicas_shield@reddit

Except you made the generalisation that people who are afraid of dogs are afraid of all dogs regardless of size. I was pointing out that this is untrue.

[-]

Greenmedic2120@reddit

Yep and I’ve since elaborated on that.

[-]

Former_Wang_owner@reddit

Silent fireworks don't exist, a silent explosion is impossible. Fireworks are already half as loud as they were 20 years ago due to government regulation

I'm not afraid of dogs. My daughter was mauled by a dog in the park aged 4. She lost a leg due to this. She understandably has PTSD. If PTSD is enough to change firework laws (which has already happened, twice), why not change laws on dogs?

EvilTaffyapple@reddit

500 was an exaggeration.
Animals die every year from fireworks - usually from heart attacks.
Your daughter is an adult. I think she is old enough to be able to navigate life without worrying about dogs

[-]

Former_Wang_owner@reddit

It takes nothing more than effort to train an animal to stop being afraid of fireworks. There are tried and tested methods that don't even take that long.

My daughter has PTSD.

[-]

So what’s your thing about the wildlife then? Oh the cows trample people to death is that your next thing to say to deflect.

[-]

Former_Wang_owner@reddit

I'm not glossing over it at all. I don't think we should ban dogs. I also don't think we should ban fireworks. Some people are negatively affected by just about anything you can think of. It's an unfortunate part of life.

Surely you realise some autistic people that are terrified of dogs?

[-]

It’s easy for your daughter to avoid dogs

Is it? Dogs are allowed outside every day, all day. They are always around, and it's getting worse, more and more places are becoming "dog friendly" - you don't need to take you dog shopping or out for a meal and yet the entitled owners want them everywhere.

My daughter wax mauled as a child. She lost a leg to the attack

[-]

kittyvixxmwah@reddit

Look at it this way, if you ban fireworks you'll make things better for people who don't like them. Unfortunately, you'll piss off a lot more people who enjoy them.

The people who have a problem with fireworks are a very small minority, and it's a "majority rules" situation. Does the discomfort of a minority of people outweigh the enjoyment of a majority? Unfortunately, it doesn't.

In short, it sucks that it causes you a problem and I do have empathy, but it's your problem to deal with. You can't realistically expect everybody else in the world to cater to your preferences to their own detriment.

[-]

Ok-Cartographer8335@reddit

Just because something’s loud, doesn’t make it the majority. Just like the internet.

[-]

thenaysmithy@reddit

That's literally the opposite to how society and the law works my good man.

Otherwise racism wouldn't be illegal, and discrimination would be encouraged. I'd argue that murder and rape would be legal too because at one time, it was normalised but eventually became illegal.

We make accommodations for the minorities in society because we are meant to be an advanced civilised nation. We make laws to ensure the vulnerable and sick are not taken advantage of. We make laws to ensure damage isn't done to innocent people.

I'd also say that the majority of people are sympathetic to people who want fireworks regulated properly, and silent fireworks have been a thing for centuries. We could just use them.

Or...

Now hear me out here....

Martyfisch@reddit

Thing is, an organised display is advertised, so you can prepare for it in advance. If the neighbours suddenly decide to let off a load of fireworks on a random evening, you can't be ready for it.

We need better, bigger, displays, in an organised place, that don't cost silly money to enjoy. Like, cheaper than buying the fireworks for home kinda price.

[-]

WatercressEastern680@reddit

what about people who can’t afford to go to an organized display? what just fuck them eh? they can stil go to their neighbours garden and enjoy some fireworks. just because u don’t like them is no reason for them to stop being regulated and treated the exact way there are currently

[-]

dbxp@reddit

Organised displays are cheaper and often free

[-]

[-]

drkalmenius@reddit

Yes they are. Look at the top comment. It's hell for people with PTSD (a disability)

[-]

WatercressEastern680@reddit

it is a tiny minority, the “figures” ur implying from this post is on reddit. reddit is not an accurate cross section of society

[-]

Dull_Cost_6825@reddit

It goes both ways. They are also expecting people to cater to their enjoyment of fireworks…

[-]

blackark@reddit

Where is your evidence for these figures of majority and minority? I'd be interested in having a look at the numbers. What's that you say?You don't have any actual evidence, you're just making up the numbers to suit yourself? Thought so....main character syndrome...

[-]

AuroraHalsey@reddit

https://assets.publishing.service.gov.uk/media/60a67cb08fa8f520c79e881e/consumer-behaviours-and-attitudes-to-fireworks-report.pdf

Key findings:

61% of people personally enjoy fireworks

81% of people agree that public displays are safe

46% of people agree that private displays are safe

44% of people agree that fireworks are an important part of British culture

[-]

starlinguk@reddit

So most people want to ban private fireworks, the vast majority prefers public displays and the attitude towards fireworks is lukewarm overall.

[-]

Novel_Passenger7013@reddit

If you look at the linked report, only 36% of people support a private sale ban. The majority of people think private displays are unsafe, but that’s not the same as wanting them banned.

txteva@reddit

I can't say I've ever been dismissive or rude to someone who doesn't like or is scared of dogs.

Seriously, that's like someone saying racism doesn't exist - have a look on here for any posts about dogs and see just what dog owners are like. Trust me, dog lovers are very vocal about how evil people are if they don't like dogs.

I have personally been on the receiving end both online and in person from dog owners who cannot conceive that I do not love their dog and how could I possibly not want it jumping up in my face or biting me... it's "just being friendly".

What I do see, as I have seen tonight is some very nasty and vile comments about dogs or other animals which make me wonder how some people's minds work

Back at ya. Please explain me how the mind of dog lovers work when they are crackling with laughter over someone cries, frozen in fear as a dog keeps leaping up at them and all the owner can say is "he's just being friendly" and does not thing to remove the dog from the situation.

That's happened at least twice to me and it took other bystanders to remove the dog from me. The owner never stopped laughing.

[-]

noseyparker080@reddit

Thank you for highlighting the shameless hypocrisy of dog owners.

[-]

geeered@reddit

Many people would be very happy if all dogs were never let out in public

Maybe they were checking to see if you had very little empathy for others?

A reminder, from dictionary.com:...

sympathy is feeling compassion, sorrow, or pity for the hardships that another person encounters.
empathy is putting yourself in the shoes of another, which is why actors often talk about it.

The person with strong empathy is the one that is able to understand the position of those who's views they disagree with, rather the one able to show compassion to someone they feel in tune with.

[-]

HuffyStriker@reddit

It's Reddit. It's not fully representative of society.

Those who engage with such negative posts include trolls, keyboard warriors, and people who are ignorant/ill-educated.

[-]

Good-Cucumber3900@reddit

Because a dog, with the greatest respect, is just an animal.

[-]

geeered@reddit

Presuming that was aimed at me - I'm guessing you didn't read past my post at all.

[-]

Presuming that was aimed at me - I'm guessing you didn't read past the first 11 words.

[-]

NibblyPig@reddit

I don't like dogs, but people are allowed to parade their dogs all around me every day on public roads and parks, sometimes barking loudly, 365 days a year.

[-]

TheKnightsTippler@reddit

Yeah it ruins my local park for me. Can't take a walk round one without being constantly harassed by dogs.

[-]

Sensitive_Road_822@reddit

This. If I have to listen to dogs barking down the street, which I find an extremely jarring noise, multiple times a week. Then I struggle to find sympathy for them listening to fireworks for a few weeks out the year.

[-]

VolcanicBear@reddit

That's the spirit! I don't like something, so fuck everyone else.

I hate loud car engines, so if those people with loud engines don't like dogs barking then I struggle to find sympathy for them.

Bollocks to speaking to one another and asking them to drive less like cunts or shut their noisy fucking dog up, let's all just be spiteful to each other.

[-]

Sensitive_Road_822@reddit

There’s no spite, no actions are taken, deep inside I just don’t feel sorry for the dogs lmao.

[-]

VolcanicBear@reddit

That's fair enough, and I'm glad you admit it as that tbh.

So many people tend to back down and try and reword their argument when you point out what kind of person looks at an animal in genuine terror and distress and doesn't give a shit. We're all wired differently though.

I dislike cats, sharp contemptuous bastards, but if I see one shitting itself because it thinks the world is ending and it doesn't know why, it'll still upset me.

[-]

Kinitawowi64@reddit

The dog that chased me the length of the garden when I was six didn't give a shit about the terror and distress it caused me. Why the fuck should I give a shit about the feelings of terror and distress we as humans are projecting onto a dog because of a firework?

That cat doesn't think the world is ending. It has literally no thoughts on the concept of eschatology. It's a cat. It's a loud noise, not the end of the world.

[-]

Sensitive_Road_822@reddit

Oh yeah don’t get me wrong I don’t ever have to witness it as there’s no dogs in or around my life! Not a huge animal person but would obviously prefer to see a dog happy than distressed. More so just hearing about it from their owners doesn’t bring up any feelings of sympathy for me

[-]

Complaining about it online = imposing it on the world?

[-]

geeered@reddit

Expecting others to not do things they enjoy so I can live a more comfortable life = imposing on the world.
I'm glad I have the option for dogs to be around, just as I'm glad other people have the option to have things they enjoy, such as fireworks.

[-]

MrVillainsDayOff@reddit

Been stationed in Afghan a few times and have horrendous PTSD from my time there. I despise this time of year. My wife is amazing and does what she can to support me but our area just isn't empathetic at all. We've asked neighbours to consider not letting them off but they don't care.

We have animals too, mostly cats and it stresses them the fuck out too.

quiet fireworks take away half the fun tho. the enjoyment and cultural significance it has is worth more then protecting a few people who don’t like them and have trauma. the same ones complaining about it scaring there dog are the same ones who’s dogs make noise and scare people all year round, what about ppl with trauma from dog attacks should we ban dogs now? ur being ridiculous

[-]

Middle_Hedgehog_1827@reddit

You're literally just proving the original point. You consider your fun more important than the discomfort of others.

[-]

RainbowDissent@reddit

Yeah, there's nothing wrong with that.

If you prioritised the comfort of strangers in everything you did, you'd do nothing. Wouldn't own a dog because some people have a phobia. Wouldn't go out drinking because you might wake people up. Wouldn't go trick or treating because you might scare someone. Wouldn't ever have a party because of the neighbours. Wouldn't have a barbecue because the smell and smoke might upset nearby vegetarians. Wouldn't wear aftershave or perfume in public because some people are sensitive to it. Wouldn't take your kids to Disneyland because you might upset someone who can't afford it. Etc etc etc. Stay in the house so you don't crowd public spaces and trigger agoraphobics.

Thin-Disaster3247@reddit

It’s been like Beirut around my way for at least 2 weeks, I like fireworks but the little scroats around my way need to be banned from accessing them.

[-]

evilkitty69@reddit

I think there need to be restrictions on firework use, not so much because of the noise but because fireworks are dangerous when used improperly. This is common, especially in big cities where people throw fireworks at people, pets and cars or even shoot them up their own bums and a number of other unbelievably stupid things.

Thick_Confusion@reddit

I mean, I have ptsd and have had dogs in the past who came to us as adults who were highly reactive to fireworks, but it's on me to manage my mental health and train my animals. The thing that triggers my ptsd is having unfamiliar men be near me and obviously I can't really ask men to leave my neighbourhood because it's on me to manage my triggers and responses. Sudden noises or surprises are very upsetting to me but again that's my responsibility to manage and it's fairly predictable where I live that fireworks will be going off from October to Novemeber pretty intensely. People deserve empathy but this is the internet and there's not a lot of empathy to spare, especially on reddit.

[-]

Capital-Ad6221@reddit

I have little time for dog owners issues with fireworks; I have to put up with their stupid animals all year round (shit on the streets, being jumped on, barking, the smell/noise in many restaurants full of dogs nowadays), is it really too much to ask that they shut the curtains/turn up the TV 2 nights a year?

[-]

BikeProblemGuy@reddit

trying to understand what pleasure someone can get from letting off fireworks that do nothing but emit a loud bang

This also sounds like a lack of empathy, or being argumentative by masquerading that way. Are they really expecting people will explain why the human brain experiences enjoyment from sensory stimuli?

[-]

CommonProfessor1708@reddit

I am a 39 year old autistic woman. Over this weekend, I have spent a collective nine hours of my life huddled in the hallway of my apartment (the only room that doesn't have windows) hiding from the fireworks.

Since I was a little girl I have hated fireworks. The noise of it really upsets and panics me. Once I was caught outside after dark when fireworks were going off, and I looked so terrified that a policeman literally stopped me thinking I was getting chased by a murderer. I had to explain that I was afraid of the fireworks and he escorted me home.

I fully understand that fireworks are going to happen, and try to deal with it. What I don't enjoy is the extra loud bangs that really freak me out. I get all tense, waiting for them to happen but they always startle and scare me. Even writing this now, I'm scared thinking about it.

[-]

CommonProfessor1708@reddit

I also do not like balloon pops, champagne cork popping or any sudden loud noise. Fireworks are not an isolated issue.

[-]

AloneConversation463@reddit

Okay what do you want us to do about that

[-]

CommonProfessor1708@reddit

Well like I said, I've come up with coping strategies (IE sitting in the hallway) so I guess I'm doing what I can. But I just wish the fireworks didn't have to be loud enough to shatter eardrums. Like I get you love fireworks, but it feels like fireworks have gotten louder over the last few years, and I think you can still enjoy fireworks without making them louder to. help those who are scared. Like compromise a little. You can enjoy your thing without having your thing ruin the happiness of other people.

[-]

toveiii@reddit

If it was one night a year or so I wouldn't mind as much. I actually enjoyed fireworks before moving to a major city.

Every single night for about 3 weeks, there's fireworks going off for hours. Even at 1:30AM, no matter what day it is. And even throughout the year, there's a council estate nearby who always sets them off at 1am, just because. I hear fireworks go off once or twice a week pretty much all year round. Not to mention setting them off aimed at buildings, which literally happened to my building once.

I do think fireworks sales need to be banned to the general public, because people abuse them like idiots.

If it was silent fireworks, go ahead, let them be bought by everyone - but for the normal fireworks, there are huge arseholes around that ruin it for everyone else. Not to mention the amount of people that get hurt by at home fireworks every year as well. https://cbtrust.org.uk/get-informed/campaigns/fireworks/

I also think the damage on the wildlife is just too much now, especially since our wildlife is already decimated. Thousands of animals die every year, and at the rate our wildlife is declining it's very much unsustainable.

It's such a shame because I LOVED fireworks before moving to a city. Now I really, really don't.

[-]

teknotel@reddit

I love fireworks night, I had no idea it was even a thing that people not only complained but believed they actually had the right to tell other people to stop it.

I just assumed a centuries old tradition enjoyed by thousands would be accepted and put up with for a few nights each year.

Learnt last year, it's not, and my 30-minute display at 6 pm with my 2 - and 3 year old boys meant we would get abused and screamed over at us.

Wont do it again because it's not worth the hassle but pretty gutted, actually.

[-]

Calo_Callas@reddit

Fireworks are awesome, as in they literally counjure a feeling of awe.

Pet owners, particularly pet owners who're bothered by others letting off fireworks are a vocal minority who are particularly present on Reddit.

There is of course no need for name calling or other abuse but this is to be expected at this time of year.

Some people like fireworks and there are also people who hate fireworks.

Personally I enjoy them and feel that as long as they are properly regulated then people should continue to enjoy them even if it makes some people and or their animals uncomfortable.

[-]

Wildwildworld1@reddit

It's not just pet owners though. It's also residents who are trying to sleep when their selfish bellend neighbours think it's a great idea to celebrate with fireworks at midnight.

[-]

SPUDniiik@reddit

No different to the selfish belled neighbours who let their dogs bark all hours of the day. Fireworks are for a few days of the year, whereas those dogs barking are a more permanent annoyance.

[-]

Wildwildworld1@reddit

These are two separate issues. Both are bad, but one of them happening doesn't make the other one ok.

[-]

AnotherGreenWorld1@reddit

What about if you love fireworks and bonfire night … like me … yet you don’t want to hear virgins setting them off for a month either side.

I think lots of men have been groomed during COVID by alpha male podcasts to be strong, masculine and hate women essentially.

Women have been more vocal about their rights and injustices in the world.

A lot of men are now super offended at anything weak or non masculine even if it's coming from another man.

(My husband isn't like this so I know it's not all men)

And boomers have also found the internet more

[-]

BaconLara@reddit

I mean it would explain the sudden influx of “they made her look like a man” and it’s the most woman a female character has ever looked.

[-]

gemunicornvr@reddit

Yeah I think honestly it's so true, two seventeen year old girls were murdered last week by ex boyfriends (that I have seen, could be more) one in South America and one in the UK both of the men watched alpha male content including Andrew Tate it's only gonna get worse. And wanting to take away fireworks triggers these people because it appears soft.

When in reality it's just trying to preserve our planet since recent studies have shown how bad they are

Here is a summary of all the recent science worldwide including the UK when it comes to fireworks

https://earth.org/environmental-impact-of-fireworks/

[-]

Covid proved how fucked up people are. Seem like most of them liked it and stuck to that personality. Horrifying stuff, and it will only get worse...

[-]

MTFUandPedal@reddit

Maybe it's always been this way and I've noticed this as I got older

Some people have always been assholes, The internet makes them louder and grants anonymity to people who pretend socially not to be so mean.

Unfortunately I agree with you - something definitely and subtly changed during the pandemic.

[-]

jodorthedwarf@reddit

I do think it's just a prevailing issue with the anonymity that the Internet brings. As it has come to be the primary medium of any form of communication over distance, the attitude towards other people that used to be exclusively present in online spaces has bled into the way people act, in person.

I think that there's also the factor where people of the generation who have grown up and witnessed these changes (Gen Z, predominantly) see their past as kinder and more considerate simply because less communication or tasks essential for just living were done through the Internet and people weren't as affected by how that digital anonymity affects communication.

That, in turn may have created a feedback loop where reinforcement of the acceptability of that behaviour online affects real life and then vice versa ad infinitum.

glamourise@reddit

when diana died

[-]

poopio@reddit

I think this is the first time I've ever read a Reddit comment as if it were a question from a GCSE exam board.

[-]

Exact_Umpire_4277@reddit

You can just use toxic empathy to force people to not do things you don't like

[-]

Tigertotz_411@reddit

Could be the anonymity too to be fair, I think there's just less accountability overall as fewer interactions are face to face.

People say things behind a screen they'd never say to your face, they throw litter from a moving car because they know there's less chance they'll be confronted.

[-]

poopio@reddit

This is why all drivers should have jousting lances.

Someone throws their Maccys bag out of the window. Bam.

That's why we drive on the left, isn't it?

[-]

GurOdd5743@reddit

I wouldn’t agree that people don’t have empathy anymore … but … people who write those things do that because they need to deflect from the dismal realty of their own lives which causes them to act like grubs.

[-]

lilbunnygal@reddit

This &

[-]

gemunicornvr@reddit

I don't have any issues with fireworks I am diagnosed with autism and I hate loud noises but I also don't live in a city so I honestly don't hear very many. My animals don't seem affected by them either.

I think it's absolutely insane you can just go to your supermarket and buy explosives and it should 10000% be banned unless it's an official display. It's bad for people, bad for pets and mostly bad for wildlife.

Birds can leave nests, leaving babies to die, animals flee habitats and can also leave young behind. They can even cause cardiac arrest in wild animals and even dogs have been recorded as having a heart attack due to the stress of fireworks.

Not to mention the pollution that enters the area which can cause both humans and animals an array of health conditions including cancer, heart disease and kidney disease.

Fireworks can also contaminate water which is detrimental to those ecosystems too.

I could go on.

Yes more so then you, who do think you are to tell people what they can and cannot enjoy?

we need to pass on traditions that we enjoy, It would be a great shame for younger generations to never get to enjoy the sights, feelings and sounds I have! & I can enjoy anything I want without external Interference just by merely being born as I like to live as a free Individual, especially when I am sensible with them.

The American founding fathers have spread this wisdom to all of us across the world, you should respect Liberty.. and you do not have to be a US Citizen to realise you have certain unalienable natural rights, It's just that in many places they are not recognised.

Guy Fawks, Britain, China/ USA - 4TH OF JULY Independence celebrations/ India

New Years celebrations world over, people enjoy fire works.

Birthdays/special occasions/religious festivities (Diwali etc)

they add a lot of fun to peoples lives.

If you have an issue with irresponsible people then we all do, but take it up with your local authorities.. don't seek to do away with something millions of people enjoy..

not right in the head you people.

''Oh it scares the animals'' perhaps to start with but they eventually get used to it.

''PTSD'' Sorry about that, but that's part of getting Involved with the Military.

''People misuse them'' - well If someone deliberately intends to harm another then lock them up simple, go after the people acting stupid with them, not everyone else who just wants to enjoy a bit of a bang, and a show, to give some light on a dark night.. in what can be a dark world.

[-]

natttynoo@reddit

Thanks for your little Chat GPT reply. You’re talking like fireworks are a basic human need. Wind your neck in pal.

Why as a British citizen would I give a fuck about the founding fathers?

It’s really not that deep. People were expressing their opinions on the matter. We’re not the government about to pass a law to ban everything. You can’t go through life expecting everyone to think and do as you do. Get your head out of your arse for one.

[-]

The-Rare-Road@reddit

I don't need AI to think for me, unlike some.

& so what is it to you that people want to continue to use them? when It's something they personally enjoy witnessing.

You never ask your self why the founding fathers decided to have a revolution? Why US citizens have more rights that are respected then we do?

and you should care if you have any love for freedom, Human rights or the rights of an Individual, They warned the world about certain people such as tyrants and took steps to ensure that no one could take their rights away or mistreat them.

you might not be the government, but the People are of the Government, and It's the people who are more powerful then the government, If enough people get together especially when a majority of people think a certain way in this country (GB not the USA) they can pass any law they like, and the Mob might not always be right in every respect.

and I don't but If I see something that's just daft then I am going to say it.

It's more like you people who expect that with your online echo chambers, I came here and expressed that I enjoy fireworks and want to continue enjoying them, you all have a hissy fit about it because I have an opposite opinion and you have had the odd bad experience elsewhere, basically you would wish to have them banned for general public use if you could all get away with it.

they are not the worst things in the world, and when done traditionally they are very enjoyable for all ages.

[-]

natttynoo@reddit

I don’t understand why you keep mentioning the founding fathers you’ve really gone through some mental gymnastics on this. Most of these comments agree with you so I’m hardly in an echo chamber. Enjoy your fireworks ✌🏻

[-]

StuckWithThisOne@reddit

Ahh. You see, some people actually have consideration for others. I realise that’s a foreign concept for you.

[-]

SmashingTeaCups@reddit

Consideration for others is not a small minority forcing the greater majority to stop having fun to accommodate them 🤦‍♂️

Consideration for others is “firework night is every year like clockwork around the 5th of November, sometimes on Halloween and definitely on new year. I live my life normally for 49 weeks of the year so a combined three weeks of being uncomfortable isn’t that bad all things considered”.

Then get on with your life.

[-]

ratscabs@reddit

Absolutely. Why the hell do they have to make a noise anyway? Bizarre.

[-]

Good-Cucumber3900@reddit

Do you watch TV with subtitles and the volume turned down.

[-]

Fucklebrother@reddit

It’s more fun

[-]

ThatZephyrGuy@reddit

Exactly - absolute brain-dead comment "why do they make noise?"

I think people lack sympathy whenever someone has a deep fear or phobia of something innocuous, especially when that thing is predictable and just a sound which has no way of hurting them.

Being afraid of the sound of fireworks is like being afraid of balloons, children laughing, or an episode of Strictly or something like that. It's difficult to really understand or appreciate how someone feels so terrified of something which is harmless.

Id love to empathise but if we banned everything that made people uncomfortable we'd have a very dull existence.

Unless you're a war veteran, and it's not like there's many of them in UK 2024, just suck it up for the few days of the year you hear these loud bangs.

Maybe that sounds insensitive but learning how to not let things effect you is the best medicine. And I say that as someone who's suffered from PTSD.

[-]

EvilTaffyapple@reddit

Cool.

I’ll just tell my dog to get over it then for the next 10 days. Can’t believe I didn’t think of that in the past.

[-]

eairy@reddit

You got the dog. That was your choice. It's your responsibility now, nobody else's.

[-]

Sacele@reddit

Funny how comments like these absolve themselves of any responsibility to be a considerate neighbour. Way to prove OP’s point.

[-]

dbxp@reddit

Unless you're a war veteran, and it's not like there's many of them in UK 2024,

Of course setting off fireworks into the early hours of the morning is unacceptable. That selfishness deserves widespread condemnation.

Outside of that, do your best to ignore it. Not saying that's easy, but it's the only solution, as fireworks aren't going anywhere any time soon.

[-]

Vehlin@reddit

Unfortunately my dog doesn’t really understand rational arguments like that and just thinks the world is ending. I’m very much in favour of banning fireworks outside of organised and licenced displays.

[-]

AncientAmbassador475@reddit

Dogs should be banned because i was bitten when i was a kid and it triggers my ptsd.

[-]

brixton_massive@reddit

I know dogs don't understand rational arguments. They also don't suffer from complex emotions. Your doggo will be fine the morning after.

[-]

Vehlin@reddit

Which is fine when given some sort of indication as to when it is going to happen. Because it invariably means hours of lost sleep dealing with said distraught dog.

I understand that as a dog owner I need to deal with things that happen during during fireworks. I just don’t think it’s right that fireworks means basically the entire period from November to January.

[-]

brixton_massive@reddit

I've had a dog before and never noticed them being upset with fireworks. What is it that you need to do to deal with your dog during this time?

[-]

Vehlin@reddit

Because dogs, like people are carbon copies of others.

I literally spent tonight in a small room with the dog with loud music blasting to try and drown them out because he will dig through the carpet, through the underlay and try his best to dig through the floorboards until his claws bleed to try and escape the explosions. We get enough sedatives from the vets to cover a couple of days, which I’m saving for Tuesday.

We have coping strategies for days like today. When someone decides to have a mini display on the 28th of November I can’t really prepare for it.

[-]

pablothewizard@reddit

If you'd love to empathise then, you can...

You don't have to agree with someone to have empathy for them.

[-]

TheRea1Gordon@reddit

TLDR it's mostly miserable people trying to find a legitimate "cause" to complain, when they just don't like them.

As with many issues these days, it's mostly thousands of people who are unaffected complaining about it on behalf of a tiny group who are, and never asked them to.

Makes Joe down the street feel good standing up for people PTSD, when what he means is he's in bed by 7 and doesn't want woken up.

Then you get "my dog goes mental". I've had dogs, cats, lizards, birds etc my whole life. None of them cared. Your dog goes mental at everything, that's on you.

Finally My baby is 1. She slept through most, and was amazed by the ones she did see through the window.

[-]

BananaScone@reddit

I wouldn't mind fireworks if there were actual rules that were obeyed. Only on Bonfire night and only during specific hours.

Around where I live there are just so many cunts who don't care about anybody when it comes to their loud light shows. Setting off fireworks past 9 at night like it's a perfectly reasonable thing to do. If I was in the street at 10pm playing the drums and blasting it through speakers for multiple streets to hear, people would have something to say about it. But because it's a firework I'm supposed to not give a shit?

Nervous-Peanut-5802@reddit

No, we should ban clubs, pubs, fireworks, cars and dogs. Is that so hard to hard do? (This list is not exhaustive).

[-]

Good-Cucumber3900@reddit

Bunch of absolute boring soulless people.

[-]

ThatZephyrGuy@reddit

The ultimate irony of course being that the dogs they claim to suffer from it also make random noises all year round and trigger a trauma response in people.

Of course I love dogs and would never want them banned, the same with fireworks.

[-]

sprazcrumbler@reddit

I've got PTSD and dogs are really difficult for me.

Dog owners keep taking their dogs outside where I have to see and hear them.

Gelatinous6291@reddit

Yeah, I've got 3 cats and they may stir from sleep when one of the louder ones go off (but since the 2004(?) regulations they are nowhere near as loud as they use to me), one of the watches them sometimes.

I think people forget that the law around fireworks has changed twice in the last 20, both of which restricted access, permissions and one of which I know limited noise.

People are just cutting to the chase.

You can complain about it, people can empathise with your situation, but that road inevitably leads to "What do you want us to do about it?"

[-]

Master_Bumblebee680@reddit

I don’t understand the hateful or nasty comments, but there are things triggering for everyone, and they can’t be avoided just for that one person. I say this as someone who has suffered from this and other things. We live through suffering unfortunately, having to face it all the time

[-]

CrazyPill_Taker@reddit

https://a.co/d/2CcHw4k

https://a.co/d/0ulVYpR

I've got dogs and have had for years, most were spooked by fireworks but I didn't go complaining on Facebook about it while calling those who enjoy fireworks as selfish (and much worse).

I just get my dogs valium each year and try to make them as comfortable as possible. It's literally 2 nights a year along with Hogmanay.. I dunno why some dog owners make such a song and dance about it.

[-]

chris_croc@reddit

Love fireworks. Just went to a great display with the family. Amazing coordination and artistry. Great bonfire, kids activities and food.

I think dog owners in particular come across as very entitled. It’s your decision you got a dog. Just own it Hundred years of tradition is not going to stop just for you. I’m sorry your dog is upset but it’s really not my problem.

[-]

undercovergloss@reddit

I sympathise with any person or animal struggling with fireworks - I have ptsd myself and get a little triggered. But my viewpoint is that life happens, you cannot cater every aspect of life to every person. Someone may have a fear of heights but you’re not going to get rid of every tall building because they’re triggered. Someone may be scared of spiders, you’re not going to destroy every single one.

keep_trying_username@reddit

it isn't about banning organised displays but rather trying to understand what pleasure someone can get from letting off fireworks that do nothing but emit a loud bang is downvoted.

Saying that you don't understand, is a way to disagree with someone when you don't have to backbone to come out and say it.

"I don't understand why two men want to get married."
"I don't understand why a woman wants to go to college."
"I don't understand why people like fireworks."

You sound like a non-confrontational jerk.

[-]

natttynoo@reddit

That’s quite the leap from gay marriage to not understanding why people enjoy fireworks.

Obviously I can’t speak for OP but what I understood was, why do people have zero empathy or thought for others over their fun or enjoyment? Thats a huge issue with society today. There is never compromise. Why not regulate fireworks better and just have professional events instead of weeks of dickheads setting off fireworks atall all hours?

[-]

keep_trying_username@reddit

But it's not a leap to think that people will be aggressively disagreed with when they use the same rhetoric as bigots.

If someone doesn't understand something, that's their problem. I like fireworks. I have no desire to explainwhy I like fireworks.

When someone who doesn't like fireworks asks "can you explain why you like fireworks?" they aren't trying to come to a mutual understanding where they see the point of view of the people who like fireworks. They're looking for a reason to disagree with the people who like fireworks. They are probing for people's points of views so they can disagree with those points of view. It's a fundamentally argumentative tactic that's wrapped in the guise of trying to have a conversation.

It's disingenuous, just like the bigot assholes who say things like "I don't understand why two guys want to get married." We know that the lack of understanding has nothing to do with their point of view.

[-]

natttynoo@reddit

I totally see your point of view. I suppose Reddit isn’t the best place to use much logic though.

[-]

HuffyStriker@reddit

Firstly, I think you're correct about the non-confrontational part as the sentence reads passive-aggressive. It's the equivalent of saying, "I'm trying to understand why someone would buy a pet. All it does is eat, poop, sleep, make noise, and cost me money." It takes away any kind of emotion/sentiment from the other side of the argument.

However, I also think your logic is slightly flawed.

As a heterosexual male, I don't understand how anyone could find the male body attractive.

Does this mean I secretly hate gay men and straight women? No, because I can accept people have other tastes and opinions which are different to mine.

[-]

keep_trying_username@reddit

As a heterosexual male, I don't understand how anyone could find the male body attractive.

Ok, that's a great starting point. You may not find the male body attractive, but would you really debate with people and seriously try to convince them that they should not be attracted to men? Would you try to put limits on when and where people are allowed to be attracted to men? Would you support programs where people who are attracted to men need to be registered with the government?

People want to put limits on fireworks and gay marriage. They use the phrase "I don't understand" to create a circumstance where the people who support fireworks or gay marriage need to defend their position. They need to defend liking fireworks, and they need to defend gay marriage, and if they can't formulate a logical argument to defend those things then the conclusion is fireworks and gay marriage are not necessary and aren't defendable.

If you can't explain to somebody why fireworks and gay marriage are good things, does that mean that they can be eliminated? If not, then why would you need to explain them to the people who don't understand?

[-]

cnsreddit@reddit

Let the organised displays carry on.

Limit private sales to the quiet version.

It's a bit of fun but it has real consequences, by using the quiet versions people can still have their fun without harming others.

You'd think people would have more sympathy for especially veterans with ptsd given the time of year.

And while it's predictable there's not a lot you can do about it when you have dogs and huge bangs are going off around your house from before it's dark until past midnight. Yes that's illegal but who exactly is going to do anything about it.

Quiet fireworks for private use allows everyone to have fun and put on a display at home if they want without causing harm to others they can't avoid.

In an ideal world people would stick to a couple of nights a, the Saturdays either side and the night itself and that would be more tolerable but they don't.

[-]

I feel like it’s a bit first worldly to complain about fireworks that usually only happen once a year and is not constant when there’s children and innocent people being killed by bombs everyday that are aided by our own tax we pay, so maybe have a little perspective.

[-]

FlameLightFleeNight@reddit

Had a bonfire at my sailing club yesterday. Getting a free viewing of the neighbours setting their money on fire is always part of the fun of course, but the nearest amateur display was taking the mick. It was impossible to hold a conversation for 10 minutes at a time at intervals through the evening.

It’s people genuinely not caring and going one step further by being mean to the people affected. Just one example of a huge decline in public decency and general behaviour imho

[-]

Super-Rhubarb-5690@reddit

Fireworks look pretty and cool but I’d happily give them up if it meant not scaring animals.

People are just sick, selfish inconsiderate assholes

[-]

txteva@reddit

The sarcastic response - because most of those dog owners also use the "just being friendly" line while their dogs attack others. I'm not allowed to ban dogs, despite them causing me trauma but some people seem to like them so we have to deal. It's actually easier to ignore fireworks than it is to avoid dogs & their terrible owners.

Personally, I agree that fireworks should be more regulated purely for a safety perspective since they can cause major injuries.

However, loud shiny things are fun. Not everyone likes them, that's fine, but they are fun and that's kinda why there's big displays of them.

I get some people/animals don't like them and that's totally valid, but likely they also don't like thunderstorms (which happen about as often as fireworks) and house/car alarms. Life isn't always quiet.

If they bother you then get some loops/earplugs and keep the doors & windows closed for the few days of the year that the events happened. With double glazing you can barely hear them even close by!

[-]

Thick_Winter_2451@reddit

In general, anything that requires empathy tends to elicit angry responses from people, because it comes across as requesting a person to give to someone else; accommodation, empathy, good-will etc. A lot of people feel that this is giving and not receiving anything in return. The "Why should I?" type of a thing, really.

[-]

Snoo-46104@reddit

Wear ear plugs and get your dog some ear muffs.

Its not about people not being empathetic its about its your issue to solve not other peoples. Yeah its sad it triggers ptsd, but why havent you bought ear plugs if this happens to you every year.

The world cannot pander to the 0.1% this isnt how stuff works.

[-]

WhaleSharkQueen@reddit

The comments are unfortunately proving your point.

I love bonfire night, we had dogs most of my childhood that were fine with it, but I have also nearly had my face blown off by idiots improperly handling them. I think regular people shouldn't be able to buy them and it's not even just because of the noise but the potential safety risk too, not to mention those with various PTSD issues and the impact to the environment.

People in the comments are acting like 'oh it's just one night of the year that's a YOU problem' the issue is it ISN'T one night of the year though. Of course it would be nice if everyone did adhere to the 5th of November for their personal displays but often times not everyone does. Which is why I think we need to stick to public displays only.

Maybe instead of immediately jumping to 'we're sick of hearing people complain about it every year' people should stop and consider WHY those people do complain every year, and just hold back their vitriol and selfishness and be a little more understanding instead.

[-]

hooloovoop@reddit

I expect you'll just lump me in with all the meanies, but genuinely, literally what are you proposing if not a ban? The sight and sound of fireworks carries for miles around. There is nothing that would make a difference other than a total ban, or must be like five miles from any residential space, which is all but impossible in the UK.

Their needs to be restrictions on how loud they can be,

It's really not just one day though is it? It's November 3rd and we've already had two nights of fireworks where I am. I guess I can expect another two. Then there's Christmas and New Year.

People's freedoms are not extremely restricted in the UK. People's freedoms are extremely restricted in North Korea. We have tons of freedom here.

People are just asking if maybe fireworks that sound like bombs exploding could maybe happen in organised displays instead of your next door neighbours garden when you're not expecting it, and scare your dog/baby/dementia patient/autistic/PTSD person to death.

[-]

AndromedaDependency@reddit

Peoples freedom to enjoy their life is important yes. Its just a small time of inconvenience compared to the rest of the firework free year that you enjoy. There has to be a point where people are allowed to have some enjoyment over others discomfort or we'd all just live stale sanitary lives.

P.s. the Changgwang fireworks store in North Korea was in the news earlier this year for proudly stocking a new firework that looks like their Hwasong-17 missile.

The store stocks over 90,000 fireworks and Kim Jong Un himself taught the shop how to increase the number and quality of the fireworks that people will use.

Ok_Project_2613@reddit

Following this line of thinking, where do we stop?

If we don't believe in endangering or taking another life then we should legislate veganism nationally.

Then we would also need to legislate against any imports from countries where they use animals as work animals etc.

You can see how ridiculous this starts to get when you spend just a few moments looking at the suggestion!

[-]

Learning-Power@reddit

I suppose I think that we could quite quickly suck all the joy out of life if we started banning things that negatively impacted very small swathes of the population - especially if those negative impact are simply centred around unpleasant emotional processes.

For example: presumably more people are allergic to peanuts than are negatively impacted by fireworks, peanut allergies can actually kill people, it would be logical to simply ban peanuts from the entire food supply system to protect them - but we don't.

Further, it is generally seen as reasonable that if a very small minority of people have a problem with something that many people enjoy - it is a shame to ruin it for the majority, and the minority should simply find sensible ways of dealing with the issue.

In this case: fireworks are, in the UK, basically just used for two nights of the year - a person with issues should either go somewhere where there are no fireworks and/or use a combination of earplugs and noise cancelling headphones to block out the triggering sounds.

Generally: we also encourage people to treat and heal from their mental health conditions instead of asking everyone else to adapt around it.

[-]

PurpleBiscuits52@reddit

I haven't seen the post but I live in an area where they're going off mostly every day, sometimes in the road, and sometimes it could be 1am when they start going off. This morning I thought a grenade had gone off behind me as I was pegging my washing out at 9am. Someone a couple doors down is getting married I guess. My heart has not stopped racing and it makes me so anxious.

It causes everyone in my home disruption. Wakes my toddler and teenager up. Scares the cat. It drives me nuts. It must terrify the old people around here too.

[-]

Great-Activity-5420@reddit

People just either don't understand or don't care. Especially if it doesn't affect them

[-]

Fireworks are for morons, it's as simple as that.

Of course morons react angrily to people not liking fireworks, the same way morons got angry about banning xl bullies.

The only people entertained by fireworks are children and low IQ adults.

[-]

Not_That_Magical@reddit

Because it’s not changing, and a fun night for everyone else. We can’t get rid of everything because of a small minority. It’s not bigoted against anyone or anything. My dog was horribly anxious yesterday from the fireworks. My problem to solve, I don’t want other people’s enjoyment taken away

[-]

Valuable-Disaster567@reddit

I’m autistic and I have a dog that is scared of her own shadow, so neither of us like it. I put on my noise cancelling headphones and cuddle my little dog for the night. It’s really no big deal. It’s temporary and it happens every year. People need to chill.

[-]

SifuReplay@reddit

Sell fireworks but remove all instructions and warnings. Let chavs blow their hands off in their trampoline filled back gardens to their unimpressed, grubby kids called “Liam” and “Jayden” as their XL bully have a fucking meltdown inside.

Or, have an IQ test before you get to buy them. “Sorry, dingus, you’re too stupid to be allowed explosives. Just take your kid to an organised event where intelligent adults are in charge.”

I have no issue with organised displays. But I hate morons setting shite fireworks off, that impresses no one and scares the shit out of every animal for a mile radius.

[-]

IcePrudent4464@reddit

Yes, I believe many people are incapable of putting themselves in 'someone else's shoes', they may lack emotional intelligence. Most towns & cities are akin to war, like mini explosions & a smoky layer hangs in the sky.

Most pet owners have to keep their charges inside until the bangs & crashes abate. I much prefer organised displays.

[-]

FerrusesIronHandjob@reddit

I kinda liked fireworks. I don't like 5 consecutive days of 6 hours of fireworks, well into the night

People also set them off for weddings where I am. I've very much lost my enjoyment for them

Like everything, people took the piss and ruined it

[-]

YarnPenguin@reddit

Big noise good, make pretty light

[-]

piskyfi@reddit

I love fireworks even as the owner of a dog who doesn’t love them. I have found though in recent years that the season for hearing them has extended, starting mid October and going until the New Year. I know this is due to the mixed community around here with different celebrations all happening around this time. It has somehow made them less special.

And with anyone with pets struggling we’ve had the best success by playing fireworks sounds in an effort to desensitise our dog and giving him CBD drops.

[-]

Fucklebrother@reddit

You all need to get tougher dogs

[-]

WatercressEastern680@reddit

posts like these are the exact reason ppl are caring less and less about catering to other people. who tf r u to tell people what should or shouldn’t be allowed because of u and ur dog. i’m sure u walk past many ppl every day who have a fear of dogs, should we ban ur dog?

[-]

New-account-01@reddit

Because a small minority moan every year, what do you actually expect to happen as a result? Public firework events to cancel their annual plans and disappoint the majority of families that attend because of your pet.

It took literally seconds to check.

https://www.actonsinjurysolicitors.co.uk/news/injuries-caused-by-fireworks/#:~:text=Around%201000%20people%20a%20year,the%20most%20common%20fireworks%20injuries.

[-]

all-dayJJ@reddit

Yep, that's a private company trying to sell you a service by offering unsubstantiated statistics that don't even back up your point. What did you prove?

[-]

securinight@reddit

https://www.rospa.com/news-and-views/firework-safety

That any better for you? People cannot be trusted with fireworks. And if they cannot play properly, then they shouldn't play at all.

[-]

all-dayJJ@reddit

I've done you a favour and gone to the home office in case you were right.

In 2022, 13 people were injured nationwide. 0 hospitalisations. In 2023, 32 were injured. 0 hospitalisations.

Who was the horrific injury that needed a plaster or vaseline that justifies banning them?

[-]

securinight@reddit

You provide no links to prove why of this, yet your own words show injuries nearly tripling in a year. How do you think those injuries made it into record if they didn't go to hospital.

[-]

Fox-1969@reddit

Personly people should only let off individual fireworks on 5th November night and that's it. And at the weekend any properly organised event should be held only. I think this is a fair comprise for everybody. What do you think?

[-]

NochMessLonster@reddit

Everyone knows that the weekend before, week of, and weekend after Divali and 5th November are going to have fireworks. So all the ‘a heads up would be nice’ posts are just ridiculous.

Habituate your dog gradually throughout the year. Put things in place during firework season.

[-]

HeartyBeast@reddit

In terms of pets, because none of those people were unaware of the existence of fireworks when they decided to buy a pet.

[-]

AnotherGreenWorld1@reddit

If it affects pets and humans then I should imagine that it affects wildlife

[-]

We've had fireworks going off nightly for almost 2 months where I live, it's beyond a joke. I personally have never liked fireworks just because they aren't my thing. For the amount of disruption they cause to people and animals (including wildlife that literally have no escape) I don't think it's fair to allow people to use them this way.

I think we need to start setting some limits on days they can be let off and fining anyone who doesn't adhere to it. It's just getting silly.

[-]

Liquidawesomes@reddit

Unfortunately this year has been a bit of a perfect storm for fireworks :

Clear, dry and warm weather
half term -dwiali on Friday (spilling into the weekend) -bonfire night 4 days later (people celebrating over the weekend)

Maybe because posing the question like ‘trying to understand what pleasure someone can get from letting of fireworks that do nothing but emit a loud noise’ is a really selfish way to look at things and you sound like a twat.

People have enjoyed fireworks for a long time despite it being ‘nothing but a loud noise’ . They’re not new and it’s the same every year, maybe try prepare, maybe train your pets.

[-]

Sharaz_Jek-@reddit

Because the puritian era ended a long time ago.

Should we ban easter cause diabetes and christmas cause epilepsy and new years cause narcolepsy ?

What if a 4 year old gets cared by someone's halloween costume?

[-]

Wouldn't let it simmer until the morning, will smell like a pub toilet

[-]

I've never understood the attraction of fireworks. Just have organised displays on November 5th and ban the general sale of them.

[-]

Woodland-Echo@reddit

I think they should be banned from gardens. The displays are so much more impressive anyway.

I'm autistic and the noises really stress me out, I was close to tears last night, my cat hides all night and my dog is so unbelievably distressed from them. And it's not just one or 2 nights a year, it's almost nightly from October 31st until new year.

I know most can't make the correlation so I'll be downvoted to oblivion, but have you seen the quality of housing in the UK, compared to other wealthy nations, where children are expected to live in and grow up? And how everyone has accepted that as the way of life? Do you know how most people spend their entire income on rent and commute, with the "public" transport being the most expensive in the entire continent? Do you remember how many were trying to decide between heating their homes or buying groceries? Nobody cares about any of that, why would anyone care about a few days of fireworks affecting people?!

[-]

Daffy1275@reddit

I used to help with an organised firework display, the amount of training we had was surprisingly large. I still can't believe that we sell explosives to untrained people to release in their back gardens in heavily built up areas. Rockets especially when the body drops back to the ground can be dangerous a good example was a shed fire caused by still burning rocket body destroying my neighbour's notability scooter and with no liability from the people who launched it.

[-]

And_Justice@reddit

I'm a bit confused, OP - you talk about people not having empathy for people who don't like fireworks but you talk about people who don't have empathy for people that do like fireworks?

The issue with reddit is that you have a core of very belligerent anti-noise people who act like anyone that makes unnecessary noise is infringing on their very being and is committing a war crime so naturally you have people on the other side who dig in as well. It's a two-to-tango type situation here, in all honesty. If you want a taste of it - just say "I don't use headphones" in any conversation about public noise and watch how quickly people jump down your throat presuming that you are walking round blasting music out of your car rather than simply not listening to music in public at all.

[-]

Desperate-Flight@reddit

Animals can be trained from a young age to tolerate fireworks. If you’re pet is scared of them and you’ve had them from young that’s a you problem I’m afraid

[-]

scrappy_bong@reddit

None of my animals have ever been scared. Even my house rabbit didn't care. But some animals get so bad. It's really sad. I've seen it. They can't settle they pace all nice crying panting shaking it's awful to see. I don't understand how anyone can laugh or take the mick out of a distressed animal. They have no hearts.

[-]

DurhamOx@reddit

Because more people get joy from fireworks than have issues with them
Because the most vocal anti-firework types are the kind of limp-wristed individuals who want to ban anything and everything

[-]

Full_Change_3890@reddit

With all due respect you can have empathy and also not be against fireworks. It sounds like it’s not empathy you’re looking for but people to agree with you that fireworks are pointless and don’t bring anyone joy.

It is a choice to have a dog in the same way that it is a choice to enjoy fireworks, neither is inherently good or bad. Unfortunately if you have a dog it’s just going to have to get on with it.

I do feel sorry for people with PTSD, but in the same breath there are people with PTSD for many reasons along with other mental and physical health issues and we cannot adjust society to fit everyone’s needs all the time. I think it’s reasonable to limit when fireworks can be used, I don’t think it’s reasonable to suggest we get rid of them altogether.

[-]

Bella-in-the-garden@reddit

There are some very young calves in the field next to my house. Someone decided to set off those really loud fireworks at about 10pm and it went on for maybe 20 minutes (not constantly). People don’t give a damn and I’m amazed how people living in rural areas have little awareness or consideration of animals and livestock around them.

[-]

anneomoly@reddit

But a lot of them aren't connected to the community around them any more - they live in picturesque village and commute back to town for everything.

[-]

3me20characters@reddit

...trying to understand what pleasure someone can get from letting off fireworks that do nothing but emit a loud bang is downvoted.

You're probably getting downvoted because you sound condescending.

[-]

Reynard_de_Malperdy@reddit

So I think part of the equation is genuinely that people are bigger jerks online than they are in real life, where they are likely to suffer social or physical consequences for their behaviour.

Also social media algorithms are designed to drive engagement and the thing that does that is amplifying the most unreasonable voices on both sides of a debate. The pet owners who want a blanket ban on an ancient tradition because their vile chihuahua is sketchy as fuck around bangs - the horrible white van driver who thinks people with trauma need to just get over it.

And when the people in the middle become convinced that the lunatics represent the whole of the other side they tend to get nasty.

[-]

Biffowolf@reddit

I have a nervous dog and fireworks affect him despite calming solutions etc. My problem with fireworks are pretty much circulate around bonfire nights, which is fine, if it were a one or two night celebration but this is Britain and as its the only time of year people have access to them pretty much, it goes on for weeks. Special shout out to the bell ends in the UK that set them of during the day or wait until 1:30 am to start their displays - absolute chav twats.

[-]

NaughtyDred@reddit

Dogs react to their owners mood, if you are sat there fretting and worrying about your dog they will not like fireworks. If you treat the situation like it doesn't mean anything then they will likely be fine.

Plus with double glazing and the telly on you can barely hear them.

[-]

RideForRuin@reddit

It does start to get annoying when people send them off on random days. Haloween, Diwali, bonfire night and new year’s is fine but in my area it’s been almost every day this week.

As for the lack of empathy, dog owners can be pretty inconsiderate so I think some people feel vindicated when they suffer. People are rude online because they get away with it.

At the end of the day, some people love fireworks enough than anyone trying to discourage them will get on their nerves. It’s also context dependent. There probably aren’t many people hating on war veterans for struggling with fireworks

[-]

Bunnyy_Joy@reddit

Argh...

[-]

StillHateLGHDTVs@reddit

Your pets aren't my problem? My kids love fireworks, my neighbours kids love fireworks and so do my families kids. I care a wee bit more about their happiness than some strangers dog being scared.

[-]

Intuith@reddit

I never used to fully understand it, but I was still able to empathise and accept another person’s experience as valid and what to help them if I could in any way.

I then experiences a rewiring of my nervous system after a traumatic rape after being drugged by my landlord. Nothing loud or ‘shocking’ (in the way you might think of ptsd for a war veteran might develop) …yet my startle reflex went from ‘rarely there’ even in the face of actually loud/startling things, to gigantic muscle contractions from relatively ‘small’ sounds along with huge releases of adrenaline/cortisol.

[-]

evenstevens280@reddit

I thought we were supposed to be a nation of animal lovers.

Poor pup

Do your own research but I've heard that catnip can have a really calming/sedating effect on dogs. Might be worth giving him some chemical assistance, whether herbal or from the vets?

[-]

Silly-Canary-916@reddit (OP)

Thanks. He's not a fan of catnip but I do give him valerian along with reduce remedy as otherwise he would be even worse

[-]

SerendipitousCrow@reddit

Bless him! He's lucky to have an owner who's on the ball

[-]

Silly-Canary-916@reddit (OP)

Thank you, he's a lovely old boy who just wants a peaceful life and the odd slice of toast ( lurpack only, he refuses flora😂)

[-]

EvilTaffyapple@reddit

What a dickhead thing to say. Proving the lack of empathy OP was saying.

There definitely seems to be an indifference online but honestly more people are willing to disregard your feelings online.

There are a lot of dog owners/lovers in the real world, I would imagine most of the firework enjoyers would have more sympathy if this was brought up during an in person conversation.

[-]

CaptainHindsight92@reddit

I think it isn't generally due to a lack of empathy. But we have been using fireworks for around 500 years. Thousands of people go out to watch the displays every year in November and January. Yes it sucks that some people's dogs get frightened. No decent person likes the idea of an animal being scared but should everyone have to change what they do because of the feelings of an animal that can't be reasoned with? Most dogs hate the post man, should we stop the post because of that?

[-]

CrystalKirlia@reddit

As a diagnosed autistic lass with SEVERE noise sensitivity, I thank you for this post!

[-]

banxy85@reddit

It's the same chavvy lot who don't care that Chinese lanterns start fires and kill animals

[-]

Some people are cretins who only care about themselves.

[-]

Spiritual_Pound_6848@reddit

My dog gets so scared during fireworks and I have sensory issues (ADHD, I get over stimulated easily) so it’s horrible. Especially when fireworks are no longer contained to 1-2 nights over actual bonfire night or the weekend before, it seems round by me they’re being set off for WEEKS, there’s consistently been fireworks here for a few weeks every night.

Reddit is full of users who want empathy for themselves and yet simultaneously have none for others.

See any r/anti(insertthing) subs for some good examples.

[-]

SquidgeSquadge@reddit

I honestly think there should be laws and rules for public displays only and you could only light them elsewhere with a massive fee of a licence and it would have to be in a designated place and not sold to the wider public.

My adopted Grandad would spend a day or two in bed due to PTSD from WW2 every year dealing with flash backs because of it. If people could have seen the state of him maybe they'd have had a little more empathy. A strong man, in a suit every day and still sat to attendtion in bed in his smart PJs in hospital the day before he died of cancer. It gets worse and longer ever year now. I'm training my dogs to be desensitised but it's been a lot of work over many years.

[-]

SceneDifferent1041@reddit

As a collective, dog owners don't have a great reputation. Of course there are good ones but since I had children, I've grown a dislike for anyone who thinks their dog should be running about. When those same people get upset because of the noise, I feel the need to buy more fireworks.

[-]

a-stack-of-masks@reddit

This is an interesting post. I'm not from the UK but I've noticed the same shift in the same discussion where I live. It seems like a logical result of there being less social cohesion in communities than there used to be.

I wonder if a reduced exposure to fear or risk plays a part as well. I've noticed that while for many people life being generally safe is nice, there are people that seem to have issues regulating their response to fear or setbacks. I've noticed in myself and others that if we spend long enough without 'real' threats (hungry tiger, 30+ m drop, guy with knife requesting your wallet and phone), it gets harder and harder to respond to smaller threats in a productive way. So where a combat veteran would react to some bangs by getting into fight or flight because that's what combat taught him is appropriate, their neighbour might do the same but for the opposite reason. If your nervous system doesn't get any proper stress inputs, it'll become more sensitive to it: super useful if you live on a savannah with predators trying to eat you. If you don't sense threats, you're probably not looking hard enough. Except Southend-on-sea's main predators are obesity and bad driving, and our amygdala isn't feeling it.

RevolutionaryBat9335@reddit

Yep I'd say it to their face. Frequently do in fact. Nothing wrong with fireworks apart from the Karens of the world have complained so much that they are now so expensive and hard to find most people cannot afford their own garden fireworks anymore. People bang on about wildlife, what other natural phenomoma light up the sky and create loud noises? Quick ban thunderstorms.

Most (not all I admit) dogs are scared because their human hears a firework, panics and goes to their dog telling them its ok, nothing to be afraid of coddleing them. Thereby reinforcing to the dog there is indeed something to be afraid of by the strange way their humans are acting.

Our village display the othernight was appro 150-200m away from a field of horses. None dropped dead. Same for the sheep and cows farther up the road.

[-]

Aggravating_Bill_591@reddit

My neighbours do fireworks almost every day (been like this for months, no joke) and it's infuriating. Sometimes it's just so pointless and silly.

[-]

Probably because it happens for one week a year. People need to chill.

eairy@reddit

I would say the lack of empathy in this situation is coming from the people complaining about the fireworks. They are so self-centred they need to stop other people enjoying something which they don't. It's a behaviour that's particularly pronounced on reddit. People don't seem to know how to tolerate any kind of mild inconvenience now. They just want to ban everything they don't like.

[-]

Glittering-Pride_@reddit

It’s wild how any discussion around fireworks turns into a battlefield. It’s like the minute you bring up that some people (and pets!) genuinely suffer from the noise, a crowd pops up defending their “right” to set off mini-explosions as if it's some core part of their identity.

I think a lot of it is the online “tough guy” effect—people love to act like anyone with a different experience is just a party pooper. But honestly, if these same people met your sweet, terrified dog shivering in the corner or saw a veteran visibly struggling during a fireworks show, I doubt they’d be so quick to joke. It’s like they forget there’s a real impact on actual lives beyond their screen.

Trying to make a bit of noise control sound like the end of fun is such a reach. We can keep the beautiful, colorful displays and limit the random street booms that scare half the neighborhood, right?

[-]

eairy@reddit

“right” to set off mini-explosions

Why does having a pet trump using fireworks? Pet owners need to stop projecting their desire to enslave an animal for pleasure onto everyone else.

[-]

UnicornStar1988@reddit

My neighbour last night was telling me how it upsets her dog to the point he’s running around in a panic and we had kids setting them off and I suggested she get an ear cover thing that they do for flop eared dogs but she replied that he doesn’t like anything on his head so I suggested herbal medicine to calm him down, putting lavender oil in a burner, spraying lavender on his bed and putting on some slow soothing music. Getting calming tablets or a diffuser.

[-]

Ok-Search4274@reddit

The fireworks happen on a small number of days each year. Those with issues should accommodate the firework enjoyers on those few days.

[-]

Tradtrade@reddit

Any time you make an ask of people eg ask them not to celebrate in their traditional way to make others more comfortable you’re going to face push back.

For example do you isolate and wear a mask every time you have a cold? If not, why not? Have you no empathy for immuno compromised people or is it something else going on there?

[-]

UltimateGammer@reddit

Because you're online.

The mouth breathers say this shit because unlike real life, there are no consequences.

Instead they project their personal hurt into hurting others

[-]

rainbow_rhythm@reddit

Millions of animals are slaughtered for our pleasure every week... people are obviously not going to give a shit about a few getting anxious over fireworks

[-]

dbxp@reddit

I think people that set off fireworks are a very loud minority who only think of themselves. By their nature fireworks will disturb other people over a wide area at night and often in a residential area.

[-]

thisaccountisironic@reddit

I’m autistic and fireworks send me into a sensory overload. I can guarantee you, people have more empathy for dogs around fireworks than they do autistic people.

[-]

AnimalCrossingGuy444@reddit

I get you. I'm autistic too and I'm fine with people having fireworks, like last year my neighbours told us and some other neighbours that they were having some fireworks and it'd only be around 15 minutes which I'm okay with, I just put some earphones in and could hardly hear it.

The problem is for example tonight near mine I swear people were just letting off like one firework at a time all over the place every few minutes, and it's stressful spending all night hearing just a collection of loud bangs from all different directions. I don't want to have to have earphones in basically every night between Halloween and like new years.

[-]

HashDefTrueFalse@reddit

Personally I think fireworks are pointless and quite annoying. I think they pollute in more ways than one, and I wouldn't care if they got banned. I think people should stop setting them off before too late and ideally it would be one night. I have animals and family previously in the military. I'm also no stranger to mental illness, unfortunately.

That said, most of these people calling for banning them simply need to stop bellyaching. They know full well that it won't do their animals any harm. They also don't know a single person who has any of the mental illnesses they're suddenly so concerned about. They don't really care about them either. They're using these people and their issues for their cause. Their real concern is for their animals or their own inconvenience. They don't donate to any relevant charities and haven't mentioned (or perhaps even thought of) the issues they will spend the next few days raising since last fucking year. They've not raised this to anyone in person, just on social media. It's textbook performative activism.

Pragmatically, we can't protect everyone from everything all the time. My sympathies if fireworks cause you problems.

[-]

AGrandOldMoan@reddit

Fireworks and big displays really peel back the mask of humans being above animals, we will happily stare slack jawed at the pretty loud lights in the sky

[-]

abgc161@reddit

I don’t understand how ‘I like the pretty colours and it’s traditional’ outweighs arguments of terrified pets, disturbing babies/childrens’ sleep and triggering people with legitimate PTSD, ex-army or otherwise. Particularly when there are noiseless options available.

Organised displays on a couple of nights a year is probably reasonable. But, where I live at least, there have been fireworks every night this week and I’m not sure that is ok.

[-]

TenabiiBee@reddit

Probably due to overexposure and pointless blame games, making people quick to lash out and be hyperbolic. People who hate fireworks are a very vocal minority, of whom many frequently blame everyone else for their lack of preparedness or coping mechanisms, or the use the acts of actual dangerous idiots everyone hates as being representative of all people who like and use fireworks.

It makes it easy to have a knee-jerk reaction to anyone being anti-firework as just another hypocritical, selfish jerk who hates fun. It's not right to tar everyone with the same brush like that, plenty of people dislike fireworks and are normal people, but that is probably why it happens.

Im sympathetic to people who dont like fireworks but that doesnt mean Im not going to enjoy them with my family. They are fun, beautiful and exciting. We all know fireworks are coming this time of year. We all know that they can be loud and bright. It isn't a surprise that this is coming every year and honestly it isn't that hard to prepare for it. Sporting events, concerts, hunting, loud parties and invasive wildlife are much more disruptive than fireworks will ever be.

[-]

throwawaysis000@reddit

Most Redditors are simple cunts

[-]

ppyrgic@reddit

I think the country is exhausted of the masses accommodating to the minority.

It's not just fireworks, it's a huge portion of uk life. The government creates so many rules that affect the masses but are there for the minority.

It leads to the mentality of "we can't do anything anymore". Everything offends someone.

So ultimately, I think the country had just run out of empathy. There's only so much of your life you're willing to give over to it.

[-]

Alive_Ice7937@reddit

Would you honestly say the same things to someone face to face about fireworks as you say to people online?

Is this meant to be a rhetorical question?

[-]

cragglerock93@reddit

Fireworks should be banned for non-professionals, I don't care if that makes me a killjoy. If they were invented now, there's no way they'd allow them for use by anyone with enough braincells to buy them and no more.

[-]

MrMegaPhoenix@reddit

If it’s “surprise” fireworks, fair, you don’t know where they come from or to keep your dogs in or whatever

People are often selfish. There's no reward for caring so there's little incentive to give a damn.

[-]

dfinkelstein@reddit

The problem is that every year since the Chinese invented gunpowder, more people try fireworks, and more people are overexposed to the noise.

Fragile_reddit_mods@reddit

It has gotten to be something that while I used to enjoy it as a kid it now brings me nothing but anger. They seem to get louder and louder every year. It’s the sound people hate, not the colors.

I had one go off well over a mile away from me last year and I couldn’t hear anything out of my right hear for nearly 3 days. It fkin hurt.

As far as I’m concerned it’s pure selfishness.

[-]

fiendofecology@reddit

Honestly can’t believe anyone can find fireworks interesting for more than two minutes. Definitely haven’t cared for them since I was about 12 and was feeling awful for my cowering cat this evening. Like at least go to a display don’t set them off in a residential area ffs

[-]

FirstSeaLordFord@reddit

bloody weak dogs, back in the day they were parachuting into Normandy to fight Germans, now they can't even handle fireworks

[-]

McDeathUK@reddit

It’s pretty standard for people to put selfish needs above terrifying living creatures. 3 of my cats don’t give a rats arse about the noise, however one of our rescues gets frantic as there is nowhere she can hide. I could share videos of her terror but it would not make one iota of difference.

[-]

Pen_dragons_pizza@reddit

People tend to care more about their idiot kids experience of seeing some flashing lights than anything else.

Had people calling me a twat for wishing to take a lovely memory away from kids. Could not give a fuck when it’s hurting wildlife.

[-]

Mountain_Strategy342@reddit

Personally I (and my dogs) don't mind but I can understand that fireworks night has now become weeks of random explosions it could get annoying.

As I say, I empathise but don't really have a position on it.

[-]

Top-level comments to the OP must contain genuine efforts to answer the question. No jokes, judgements, etc.
Don't be a dick to each other. If getting heated, just block and move on.
This is a strictly no-politics subreddit!

Please help us by reporting comments that break these rules.

I am a bot, and this action was performed automatically. Please contact the moderators of this subreddit if you have any questions or concerns.