ADVICE has been issued to farmers regarding livestock and fireworks as bonfire night approaches (Tuesday, November 5). 

Fireworks can startle sheep and cattle, causing them to injure themselves or run into busy roads. And poultry are at risk of being smothered when they huddle together frightened. 

RSPCA Assured have issued advice for the farming community on how to help animals at this time of year. 

A spokesperson said: "Every year farmed animals are frightened by fireworks - despite it being illegal to light fireworks near fields and barns where livestock are kept.

“One way farmers can try to reduce the risk is to proactively engage with neighbours and the local community, alerting them to the presence of livestock on their land and the impact fireworks can have.

“This fireworks season the RSPCA is also encouraging members of the public who are having displays in their gardens to consider their neighbours and warn them in advance - or, preferably, to attend organised events instead - so we hope this will help reduce the impact on farmed animals.”

They also suggested playing soothing music to livestock for limited amounts of time to mask the noises of the fireworks. 

Lucy, a pig farmer and RSPCA Assured member, plays classical music to her pigs throughout the year. 

"Classic FM is great to put on the radio for the pigs, especially when they first arrive on the farm," she said.

"The soothing sounds help keep them calm in their new environment. 

“The background music also helps muffle any sudden noises, whether it be fireworks or thunder - or even just day-to-day noises, like me walking into the shed and the tractor driving through. You can tell pigs are happier, as they play with each other and wag their tails."

RSPCA Assured's top tips 

  • Check and reinforce fencing and enclosures where necessary in case animals panic and try to escape 
  • Check your livestock regularly for signs of distress
  • Where practical, arrange for an experienced stockperson (who your animals are familiar with) to stay with them when fireworks are going off
  • After local firework displays, check fields for any firework debris that could be dangerous to your animals