The Argus readers have their say on firework debate

Readers took to social media to express their frustration at fireworks being sold online, as displays across the city are cancelled due to the ongoing pandemic.

We asked you to get in touch and let us know what the if fireworks should be sold to the public.

On Facebook, Christina Niewiadowski told The Argus that the loud explosions "scare animals" and are a " big frustration to those who like a quiet life."

She said: "Fireworks have become more sophisticated over years and scare animals as well as pets causing acute anxiety problems.

"Also fireworks are available all year round, a big frustration to those who like a quiet life.

"Historically people have injured themselves because they didn't take the right precautions.

"They should only be handled only by events that can guarantee safety."

Another reader, Catrina Scott said manufacturers should consider making the fireworks smaller, to reduce the noise.

She said: "I don't get how peoples gardens warrant the massive fireworks with 100 or more shots.

"That should be for proper displays but roman candles, Catherine wheels, and all the little pretty ones we enjoyed should be allowed.

"I remember back to when I was little in the 80s everyone had garden fireworks and their own displays no neighbours came out complaining about pets then we all just got on with it.

"Maybe if manufacturers made them small like they were back then we wouldn't have the problems of today."

According to the RSCPA, it's estimated that 45% of dogs in the UK show signs of fear when they hear fireworks.

One reader said sparklers pose a risk to children.

Another reader, Stephen Allison told The Argus on Facebook said it is only a matter of time before they are banned.

He said: "I understand they can be noisy and frighten animals, so I use "quiet packs" and I understand they can be dangerous so I wear appropriate PPE and keep people at a safe distance.

"I never buy sparklers which are without a doubt dangerous to small children.

"Sadly I personally believe it is only a matter of time before they are banned."

Facebook user Recce Mills added: "They should be illegal for 363 days of the year and available to buy only registered handlers for organised events. Bonfire night and New Year’s Eve being the two days."

While Caroline Axon told The Argus that people should settle for "a few sparkers" while at home.

She said: "I do think there should be some kind of regulation around home fireworks in terms of height and noise.

"We have quite small gardens where we live and every year we end up with exploded cardboard tubes from other houses flying on to our patio.

"If you want to see something grander then go to a safely organised event but otherwise settle for a few sparklers and low rent.

"I can't say it's seriously impacted my life by having to go to the county cricket ground in Hove to watch a better display and only being allowed sparklers at home. I think my pets would probably agree."

The RSPCA said the explosions scare pets.

Another Facebook commenter, Liam Jones said banning fireworks will "open them to be sold on the black market with no regulations."

While Jan Dory Phillips said: "It should go back to the system in the 1960s.

"They could only sell them for a couple of days before and once November 5 ended, they disappeared until the following year."