Seasonal fire safety

Chinese lanterns, also known as sky lanterns, are a popular cultural tradition and are often used in celebrations and events. While they may create a beautiful spectacle, they pose significant risks to the environment, animals, and property. As a fire and rescue service, we prioritise safety, and it is crucial to understand the potential hazards associated with Chinese lanterns. This guide provides essential safety tips and guidance to ensure responsible use and minimize the risk of fires or other accidents.

Choose Environmentally-friendly Alternatives: 

• Consider using alternative methods to celebrate special occasions, such as decorative lights, candles, or eco-friendly fireworks, which don't carry the same fire risk as Chinese lanterns. 
• Opt for virtual releases or other creative alternatives that allow you to enjoy the moment without endangering the environment. 

Understand the Risks: 

• Chinese lanterns are a fire hazard as they rely on an open flame to stay aloft. Uncontrolled landing can lead to fires on land or even pose a risk to animals and structures. 
• The wire frame and paper material used in lanterns can cause injury or entanglement if they descend improperly or near people or animals. 

Check Local Regulations: 

• Research and understand the local laws and regulations regarding the use of Chinese lanterns. Some regions may have banned or restricted their use due to the inherent fire risks. 

Weather Conditions and Launch Sites: 

• Always check weather conditions before attempting to release a Chinese lantern. Strong winds can quickly change the lantern's trajectory, increasing the risk of unintended property damage or fires. 
• Choose launch sites away from wooded areas, buildings, or any other structures that could be susceptible to fires. Open fields or large open spaces are the safest options. 

Precautions Before Launch: 

• Inspect each lantern thoroughly, ensuring the lantern is undamaged and the frame is secure. Do not use damaged lanterns as they pose an increased risk of accidents. 
• Keep a bucket of water or fire extinguisher readily available near the launch site to immediately extinguish any unintended fires. 

Responsible Release: 

• Assign a responsible adult to supervise the entire process from start to finish, ensuring safety precautions are followed. 
• Light the fuel cell according to the instructions provided by the manufacturer and be mindful of wind direction while launching. 
• Never release lanterns near airports or flight paths as they pose a serious risk to aviation. 

Reporting and Emergency Preparedness: 

• If you witness a Chinese lantern causing a fire or property damage, immediately contact the emergency services and provide as much detail as possible about the incident.   

As a fire and rescue service, we strongly advice against the use of Chinese lanterns due to the potential fire hazards they present. However, if you choose to use them, it is crucial to prioritise safety and consider the guidelines mentioned above to minimize the risks associated with their use. Respecting the environment, adhering to local regulations, and practising responsible use are essential to protect lives, property, and the natural surroundings. Let us all work together to ensure a safe and enjoyable celebration without compromising public safety.