Fire Chiefs Slam Sky Lanterns as NHS Tribute ‘Dangerous and Foolish’
Hampshire Fire and Rescue have warned the public: don’t light sky lanterns to support the NHS. They say these glowing balloons aren’t just a threat to wildlife—they’re a serious fire hazard.
“What goes up must come down,” fire bosses remind us. All too often, that means a dry field or forest catching fire, wasting precious time and resources fighting avoidable blazes.
National Fire Chiefs Council: Lanterns = No-Go
The National Fire Chiefs Council (NFCC) has slammed a viral campaign encouraging sky lantern lighting as “misguided.” With emergency services under huge strain from COVID-19, setting off flammable lanterns makes no sense, especially during dry weather.
NFCC warns: lanterns threaten livestock, farmland, thatched roofs, and dangerous material sites. Nearly 90 councils across the UK have already banned them.
“While I get people want to back the NHS, find a different way,” said NFCC Chair Roy Wilsher. “We don’t support sky lanterns—ever. This could overload fire crews and risk more NHS calls.”
Manufacturers Defend Sky Lanterns, But Can Safety Be Guaranteed?
Lantern makers hit back, blaming poor-quality products for past problems. They insist top-end models with “innovative components” are safe if used correctly in good weather.
They urge buyers to follow safety instructions and local guidelines carefully. According to Trading Standards experts, small-scale use under the right conditions is “low risk.”
The manufacturers are even including Union Jack candle bags made from fireproof paper with their lantern packs—but warn: consider LED tea-lights instead to reduce fire dangers.
The Bottom Line
- Sky lanterns may look pretty, but they pose major fire threats, especially during hot, dry spells.
- Fire chiefs and many councils say don’t risk it—choose safer ways to back the NHS.
- If you do use lanterns, stick to strict safety rules, and consider alternatives like LED lights.
The message is clear: beauty’s not worth burning down countryside or putting lives at risk.
