'Sky lanterns kill and start fires' warning over fears social media campaign could lead to wildfires

A range of bodies have warned of the dangers of lanterns, which can cause wildfires and serious damage to farms, livestock and the environment.

Chief Fire Officer Paul Hedley said: “We are totally opposed to this suggestion and in our view it is not the way to show your support for our amazing NHS and key workers.

“Sky lanterns have been proven to start wildfires and property fires, kill or injure livestock, as well as polluting our marine and natural environments. In our rural county, this poses a significant issue.

“We’re asking residents to act responsibly, and not only consider the damage they could cause, but the unnecessary strain on our critical services. Our advice is simple – don’t use them.”

It comes as Northumberland Fire and Rescue Service was involved in tackling a wildfire in the Simonside Hills on Easter Monday, which saw eight fire engines in action at the peak of the blaze and crews still in attendance on subsequent days.

Responding to the sky lanterns suggestion on social media, Northumberland county councillor Richard Wearmouth said: “Please don’t do this. We have just had major fires in Northumberland. The weather has left many areas dry. Lanterns are a fire risk and also kill livestock and wildlife. Hearts no doubt in the right place, but it won’t help and could easily do damage.”

Hexham MP Guy Opperman added: “I would urge all constituents NOT to use #SkyLanterns and our shops not to sell them: they cause fires; emergency services have enough going on; the wire in these lanterns are dangerous for wildlife/stock if eaten; they become litter. Not helpful.”

The CLA, a membership organisation for owners of land, property and businesses in rural areas, has been campaigning for a number of years to get sky lanterns banned, with its director north, Dorothy Fairburn, saying that ‘there is simply no responsible way to use them’.

“We are all keen to celebrate the invaluable work of the NHS at this terrible time, but there are much better ways to show our support than releasing dangerous and damaging sky lanterns,” she added. “What an extraordinary waste of money! This money can be directed towards those working very hard to tackle this crisis.”

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