The Sound of Fireworks
The Sound of Fireworks is a campaign with a difference. We want to raise awareness about the impact that the sound of fireworks has on Veterans. But we are on a mission to do more than just that. We are asking the nation to join us in creating a central register of displays, and we need you.
So, what is it about fireworks?
Fireworks are explosives, and to Veterans and those who have had the misfortune of experiencing war, they sound just like the battlefield.
Why are fireworks on 5th November worse?
Remembrance Day is 11 November. This is a time when we remember those who Serve and have Served. It is a time that is often difficult for the Veteran community, and while we honour them days later, only days before we fill the night sky with the sounds of the battlefield. For many, these sounds, especially at this time, are harmful, and can cause spirals of mental health and PTSD.
But it’s a tradition?
Let us be really clear – we are not suggesting that we ban fireworks! We actually think they are a special part of the British tradition in November.
How can we keep the tradition without harming our Veterans?
At the heart of the Sound of Fireworks is a register. When a firework is let off, it can take you off-guard. The element of being prepared is key.
We obviously think large organised displays are the easiest way to keep the tradition and remove the element of surprise. We are aware that private displays have their place too, at parties, weddings, on bonfire night, New Year, Diwali, and more.
We only ask you to just pop your firework display, whether it’s big or small, onto our register. It will be linked to the general area, not to your address, we promise. That’s it, then enjoy them; you have done your neighbourly thing, and the right thing by our Veterans.
Obviously, if you choose to hold off, or attend an organised display instead, that’s even better.
Why now? If this was really an issue why didn’t I know about it before?
This is just the thought that we had. Our founder Jasmine Skander is a lawyer who represents injured military Veterans.
She said: “I just had no idea that this was an issue at all. It never crossed my mind. I have always loved fireworks and bonfire night, the nights draw in, and the sky is made beautiful. I always make a point to attend a display and go out for the evening, because it’s a little bit of a magical escape.”
She explained that “As I started to do this type of work, I found myself reading witness statement, after witness statement from people with PTSD, and hearing their stories, almost everyone said the same thing – that fireworks that suddenly go off, when they don’t know where or for how long, is really brutal, especially so close to Remembrance Sunday.
I remember the first fireworks display I attended after I had started to learn about how it is experienced for Veterans. I stood there in the crowd and closed my eyes, then I understood. It really does sound just like war.”
To sign our petition, please click here.
To register your upcoming firework display/s, please click here.
To be notified of upcoming firework displays in your area, please click here.
