THE COMPANY behind a marketing campaign to promote low-noise fireworks has insisted the pyrotechnics are virtually inaudible behind closed doors.

Standard Fireworks has teamed up with the RSPCA to encourage people to celebrate bonfire season with a pop rather than a bang.

The move follows concern over the stress caused to elderly people, parents with young children and family pets by the screeches and explosions of fireworks such as rockets.

The Scottish SPCA said there are a number of incidents every year where pets bolt in terror and end up being knocked down by a car or drowning.

Standard spokesman Robin Treacher claimed that if people keep their windows closed and curtains drawn they are likely to enjoy a peaceful night while the lower-pitched fireworks light the sky.

The fireworks are recorded below 97 decibels. The current legal noise level is 120 decibels.

Mr Treacher said the special range has been around for some time, but had never been marketed as neighbour-friendly.

The initiative, he continued, was launched after the RSPCA argued consumers did not know the difference between noisy and quieter brands.

“So, in conjunction with Co-op, we have a marketing display with information leaflets. If it is successful we will roll out to all our retailers.”

Natalie Smart, Scottish SPCA spokeswoman, said the current legal noise level was the equivalent of a jet engine. “That is way too high, so these fireworks and the campaign to highlight them has to be welcomed.

“We don’t want to be killjoys but there are a lot of consequences for pets and their owners. We get so many calls. This time of year is a dreadful time for them.”

Dundee East MSP Shona Robison praised the action by Standard. “These fireworks operate at below 97 decibels, which is 23 decibels lower than the European standard.

“This certainly provides a better option for consumers.”