13 October 2026

Managing horses during firework season

Horses stood in a field in the dark with a torch shining at them

You may be aware of the Redwings ‘Keep Horses in Mind’ campaign for low noise fireworks (below 90 decibels) to be a standard requirement for the UK. You can find information including some useful links and practical ways to get involved here. There are tips on how to prepare your equine and keep them safe during fireworks which leads perfectly on to this edition of our welfare blog where we look deeper into what we can be doing to keep ourselves and our equines safe during this period.

As the nights draw in and firework season approaches, the same concerns are raised by horse owners across the country, how will their equines cope? It’s a topic we are contacted about every year, with owners seeking reassurance and practical advice on managing the stress and anxiety that fireworks can cause. Although there is only so much owners can do to protect their horses when fireworks are used unpredictably or inappropriately, preparing in advance and taking practical steps can help minimise the impact and support equine wellbeing and welfare during this challenging time.

Why are fireworks a welfare concern?

Horses are prey animals and have evolved with a strong flight instinct. Sudden loud noises, bright flashes of light and unexpected disturbances can trigger a fear response, even in generally calm and well-handled horses. While some horses may show little reaction, others can become highly anxious when fireworks are nearby.

When frightened, horses may run at speed around a field or stable, become difficult to handle, attempt to jump or break through fencing, or display visible signs of distress such as excessive sweating and agitation. Some horses may also refuse food or water, increasing the risk of health complications such as colic. In more serious cases, panicked behaviour can lead to injuries, either to the horse itself or to other equines sharing the same environment.

But it’s not just horses that are vulnerable during this time there is also the risk of injury to people handling them, as frightened horses can bolt, rear, or behave unpredictably, putting owners, riders, and handlers in danger. Data from our Fireworks and Horses survey (PDF 781 KB)found that of nearly 3,500 horse owners whose horses had been negatively affected by fireworks, a person was injured in 10% of incidents.

Planning Ahead

While owners may have limited ability to fully protect horses from the risks of fireworks under current regulations, taking practical steps and preparing early can make a difference.

Some things that we can do include checking fencing and gates for damage, removing potential hazards from fields and turnout areas, and ensuring that stables are safe and secure. Owners should also make sure their horses can be easily identified, with microchip details kept up to date, and have emergency contact information readily available. Keeping a fire extinguisher accessible is a sensible precaution in the unlikely event that a stray firework causes a fire risk. If owners have concerns about how their horse may cope, seeking advice from their vet in advance can help them put an appropriate management plan in place.

Knowing when organised displays are scheduled can also help owners make informed decisions about turnout and management arrangements.

Keeping yourself safe during fireworks

As owners and carers, our safety should always come first. If your horse is anxious during fireworks, avoid putting yourself in a position where you could be kicked, knocked over, or trapped. Stay calm, move slowly, and resist the temptation to stand too close if your horse is showing signs of fear or tension. Stable cameras can be useful where owners want to monitor their equine without being directly in their environment to observe behaviours without putting themselves in a vulnerable position.

Wearing suitable footwear, gloves, and a riding hat when handling a nervous horse can provide extra protection. It is also important to have an escape route and never place yourself between a frightened horse and a fence, wall, or stable door. By planning ahead, understanding your horse's behaviour, and prioritising your own safety, you will be in a much better position to support your horse through what can be a challenging time.

It’s important to be aware that horses can pick up on our cues when we are feeling stressed or nervous, new research suggests that they can even detect stress in us through changes in our scent.

Should horses be stabled or turned out?

There is no single solution that works for every horse. Some horses may feel more comfortable being stabled, particularly if they are accustomed to being stabled overnight. Others may find confinement stressful and are likely to be more settled in a familiar field with their companions. The most appropriate approach will depend on the individual horse, their routine, and usual management.

When deciding whether to stable a horse or leave them turned out during fireworks, owners should consider several factors. The suitability and safety of the stable or field environment, the presence of trusted equine companions and the expected weather conditions.

One of the most important is the horse's previous reactions to fireworks. However, we need to remember that horses can respond differently on different occasions, Therefore, we cannot always assume that a horse that was unfazed by fireworks in the past will react in the same way this time. Whatever option is chosen, it should be based on the individual horse's needs and welfare rather than applying a one-size-fits-all approach.

Monitoring Welfare

It is important to watch for signs that a horse may be struggling during or after fireworks. These can include restlessness, pacing, repeatedly calling to other horses, trembling, sweating, reduced appetite, or becoming unusually alert to their surroundings. In some cases, horses may also sustain injuries if they react suddenly or become disturbed by loud noises. Monitoring horses closely during periods of firework activity can help owners identify any welfare concerns early. If a horse appears unusually distressed or suffers an injury, veterinary advice should be sought promptly.

Vulnerable Horses

Some horses may be more vulnerable to firework-related stress than others. Young horses with limited life experience may be unfamiliar with sudden loud noises and therefore more likely to react fearfully. Recently rehomed horses can also find fireworks particularly challenging while they are still adjusting to a new environment and routine. Elderly horses and those recovering from illness or injury may be less able to cope with additional stress, making it especially important to monitor them closely during periods of firework activity.

Maintaining Routine

Horses are creatures of habit and often find reassurance in familiar routines.

Where possible:

Feed at normal times
Maintain regular turnout schedules
Keep bonded companions together
Keep handling calm and consistent
Remove rugs to avoid overheating/getting caught on fencing
Avoid introducing unnecessary changes

Some strategies people use to try to keep equines calm include leaving on the radio/calming music as well as the use of noise reduction ear bonnets and herbal calmers. Evidence suggests that their effectiveness may be limited but it’s about finding what works for both you and your horse.

Practical firework season checklist

Check local firework display dates in advance and make a simple plan for each evening.
Walk the field, yard and stable areas during daylight to remove hazards and check fencing, gates and latches.
Decide whether your horse is safest stabled or turned out, based on their usual routine, companions and previous reactions.
Keep horses with familiar companions- horses who are likely to be reactive may benefit from being with a calmer companion.
Ensure all horses have enough forage- offering extra can help keep horses occupied with something positive whilst considering the equines current diet/restrictions to prevent risks involved with sudden changes of diet.
Keep a torch, fully charged phone, emergency contacts, first aid kit and fire extinguisher readily available.
Check microchip and identification details are up to date in case a horse escapes.
Monitor horses calmly during and after fireworks, without putting yourself at risk by entering a field or stable with a panicking horse.
Contact your vet promptly if your horse is injured, unusually distressed, off food, showing signs of colic, or not returning to normal behaviour.

Redwings continues to campaign for better fireworks regulation to help reduce the pressure on horse owners. This autumn, we’re asking people who enjoy fireworks to Go Low by hosting or attending displays without the loud bangs that we know can be particularly stressful for horses. Find out more about the Go Low approach and how you can support it at www.go-low.org.uk.

If you have concerns about how fireworks may affect your equine's welfare, we are always happy to offer guidance. Whether you are looking for practical management tips or are worried about a horse that may be struggling, our team is here to help. You can call 01508 481008 or email welfare@redwings.co.uk.