As Hallowe’en approaches, Stroud District Council is encouraging residents to celebrate in ways that are safe, sustainable and considerate towards the whole community.
Whether you’re carving pumpkins, enjoying fireworks or heading out trick-or-treating, here are a few things to keep in mind:
Pumpkin Waste & Recycling
Once your pumpkin has served its spooky purpose, please pop it in your food waste caddy. Our crews will collect and repurpose it into farm fertiliser and energy. If you have a compost bin, that’s even better. Gloucestershire residents can benefit from discounted compost bins here GetComposting | Council Compost Bins & Food Waste Composting Solutions
Protecting Pets
With Guy Fawkes night following on November 5, please remember that fireworks can cause high stress levels for many animals. Our Animal Welfare Officers recommend:
- Keeping pets safely indoors, this includes cats, rabbits and guinea pigs, and give them somewhere to hide if they want to.
- Walking your dogs during daylight hours.
- Playing soothing music (Classic FM often runs a special programme) and keep windows and curtains closed.
- Ensuring they have their collar and tag on, and their microchip is up-to-date in case of escape.
- Speaking to your vet for advice – sedatives may be appropriate in extreme cases.
- Keeping toxic treats such as chocolate away from your pets.
- Not dressing your pets up unless they are used to wearing coats and not use anything that will obscure their vision or restrict movement.
Firework safety
Organised displays are recommended – they are safer than home displays.
If you’re lighting fireworks at home, please:
- Let your neighbours know in advance; some people find fireworks distressing, including veterans and others who may be triggered by loud bangs and flashes.
- Have a bucket of sand or water nearby.
- Never set off fireworks in public spaces, commons, or farmland – they can harm wildlife and may leave dangerous debris.
- Stick to Bonfire Night only – prolonged fireworks can be distressing for pets, wildlife and vulnerable residents.
Respecting our diverse communities
Not everyone celebrates Hallowe’en, and some may prefer not to take part in trick-or-treating. Please:
- Accompany young children.
- Sweet wrappers are often made of non-recyclable materials – dispose of them responsibly.
- Look out for “No Trick or Treaters” posters – available for download from Gloucestershire Constabulary x22-halloween-poster-one-up.pdf
- Respect all neighbours wishes and keep our communities welcoming for everyone.
“Supporting residents, communities and visitors throughout the district to be and feel safe is an important objective in our Council Plan,” said Cllr Martin Brown, Chair of Community Services and Licensing Committee.
