We the undersigned, hereby request the civil authorities in Mangaung, South Africa to NOT authorize displays of fireworks in rural, suburban and public areas, especially during Guy Fawkes period. The Waterfront is an especially sensitive area because of the close proximity of the zoo and suburban areas.
Fireworks have a devastating effect on both the zoo and domestic animals.
Havoc is caused by the sudden and ongoing loud and flashing explosions which traumatise and confuse the animals and birds. In nature these creatures are able to sense oncoming thunder and can prepare accordingly. Fireworks give no warning.
Panicking birds often crash into windows or walls or, as has happened, get impaled on thorns of trees around. The disorientated birds can not find their nests again in the dark, causing nestlings to die of exposure and hunger.
Although many pet owners stay at home to comfort their pets, horror happenings like dogs crashing through glass, getting impaled on pallisades and storming into traffic, do occur.
This fireworks displays are scheduled for 2-5 November. We need your support to have this yearly occurrence permanently cancelled.
An alternative, and improvement, could be laser light shows with music.
SAP, Manguang Metro Municipality, Civil Aviation Authority
Please do not authorize the public displays of fireworks in our beautiful city, Bloemfontein.
Fireworks displays are cheap thrills with an unnecessary risk to our personal and environmental health and the health and safety of the pets and animals in our city.
