As Bonfire Night and Diwali celebrations approach, Southend Council has announced the launch of its “Rocket O'Clock” campaign, which has been supported by dog owners.

The new initiative urges residents to restrict firework use to early evening hours, ideally between 7pm and 9pm.

The campaign is aimed at reducing the impact of loud fireworks on families, pets, and those sensitive to sudden sounds while encouraging mindful celebration practices across the city.

The campaign was first proposed and approved by Southend’s Full Council in 2023, and after seeing success in similar initiatives across the UK.

The “Rocket O'Clock” campaign asks residents to consider only setting off fireworks during early evening hours, ideally between 7pm and 9pm.

Lydia Hyde, councillor responsible for climate, environment, and waste, emphasised the importance of finding balance between joyful celebrations and the well-being of the community.

She said: “Fireworks can be a wonderful part of our celebrations, but we must consider their impact on our community, particularly those with sensory sensitivities, and pets and wildlife.

Initiative - Lydia Hyde, councillor responsible for climate, environment, and wasteInitiative - Lydia Hyde, councillor responsible for climate, environment, and waste (Image: Lydia Hyde)

“We are asking people to limit firework use to certain hours and attend public displays where possible. This can help everyone enjoy the festivities with a little more peace of mind.

“Let’s make this Bonfire Night and Diwali season safe and enjoyable for all in Southend.”

In addition to promoting a respectful timeline for fireworks, the “Rocket O'Clock” initiative encourages residents to consider attending organised public displays, which typically adhere to noise and safety standards, and to notify neighbours ahead of any personal displays.

The Council is also promoting the use of quieter firework options.

Wow - The fireworks in SouthendWow - The fireworks in Southend (Image: Foster Congrave)

Residents have been supportive of this decision with many expressing the impact fireworks has on their dogs.

Han Asuncion, 33, and Michael Peralta, 36, who have a dog called Benjamin, said: “He hates the fireworks.

“It is the sudden bangs that really scare him, and he always hides under the covers or the table.

Positive - Han Asuncion and Michael Peralta with their dog BenjaminPositive - Han Asuncion and Michael Peralta with their dog Benjamin (Image: Newsquest)

“I think it would be a good idea to limit the amount of fireworks that are going off.”

Southend resident Lesley Taylor added: “I would like to see them banned completely except for organised displays.

“But the 7pm to 9pm is a compromise. My dog literally shakes and foams at the mount and shuts down. It is horrible to see.

“The stress on her is unbelievable, all for human entertainment.

“I welcome the idea as two hours is more manageable.”

Julie Edwards, 58, was in Southend with her dog Ozzy, visiting from Hertfordshire. She would welcome a similar policy in her area.

She said: “It is going to be his first year of fireworks so we will see how he handles them.

“But our previous dog was always very upset by them and some sort of time limit would have been great.

“The biggest issue is also the volume.”