WITH bonfire night just around the corner, the Mare and Foal Sanctuary, Ipplepen, is asking the public to consider the risks that fireworks and Chinese lanterns pose to the animals.

Loud noises and flashes of light from fireworks can be frightening to horses which have much more sensitive hearing than humans.

A scared horse may try to bolt which can easily cause damage, injury and even death.

It’s not just fireworks that can cause problems as Sally Burton, equine manager explains: ‘Chinese lanterns may look pretty but they can cause real problems when they land, a flame that has not gone out can cause a fire.

‘The metal frame being difficult to see once the rest of the lantern has burned away can cause injury through entanglement or even be ingested which can prove fatal.’

The sanctuary is urging people to attend organised firework displays but if you let off fireworks to let neighbours and nearby landowners know, especially if they have horses.

For more tips and advice on keeping your animals safe on bonfire night get in touch with the equine team on 01803 355969.