Lubbeek (Brussels Morning Newspaper) – A horse was injured in central Lubbeek after being startled by unexpected fireworks, raising renewed concerns about animal safety during local celebrations.
The veterinarian had to suture the horse after it crashed into the fence.
“We take precautions at New Year’s and put the horses inside. But now you don’t expect fireworks, and that’s how things go wrong,”
says Alexandra Heath, the horse’s owner from Lubbeek, Belgium.
It was around 11:20 PM on Wednesday evening that Alexandra heard fireworks.
“It didn’t last long, but there were a few loud bangs. We live along the Leurbeek stream, not far from the school in Lubbeek. We think the fireworks were set off near the scout camp. The Lubbeek scouts are at camp themselves, so it must have been other young people.”
Alexandra has several horses that are now in the pasture day and night.
“One of my horses was so startled by the bangs that it injured itself on our fence. Its neck was open and had to be stitched. The vet also assumes the horse was very startled and injured itself.”
Alexandra can live with fireworks being set off at New Year’s “because we take that into account and put the horses inside, but the fact that fireworks are set off unannounced is dangerous and I want to prosecute.”
Local residents confirmed on Facebook that they’ve heard fireworks in the center of Lubbeek for two nights in a row. Alexandra has since reported the incident to the police. She hopes it won’t happen again.
“There needs to be more responsibility and respect for animals in the neighborhood. Think before you set something off!”
What measures are being taken or recommended to prevent similar incidents affecting animals in the future?
Several municipalities in Belgium, including some with full fireworks bans, limit or prohibit fireworks use during certain times to protect animals and communities from distress and injury. Extension of restrictions on public sale and private use is often urged to reduce risks.
Encouraging or mandating use of official fireworks shows rather than private displays helps concentrate noise and light in designated areas with controlled timing, reducing random disturbances.
Educating the public about the impact of fireworks on pets, horses, livestock, and wildlife is critical. Campaigns emphasize responsible use, timing, and location choices to mitigate harm.
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