April 14, 2020 3.32 pm This story is over 47 months old

NO to sky lanterns, says Lincoln fire service

Stop using sky lanterns while we clap for our carers
Photo: Lincolnshire Resilience Forum via Facebook
By Local Democracy Reporter

Lincolnshire Fire and Rescue has issued a warning to people using sky lanterns.

This announcement comes after encouragement was shown to light lanterns alongside the weekly ‘clap for our carers’ initiative in support of NHS workers.

Matt King, the integrated risk manager, said: “Lanterns are a fire hazard, pose a risk to livestock, agriculture, thatched properties and hazardous material sites.

“All emergency services are currently under increased pressure due to COVID-19.

“We believe the suggestion that people should set off highly flammable lanterns should be highly discouraged and we are asking the public to look for alternative ways to show their support for our fantastic NHS colleagues.”

This statement has been supported by the National Fire Chiefs Council, chair Roy Wilsher added: “If a sky lantern causes a fire, it could see firefighters spending valuable time dealing with what could be a complex and large-scale incident.

“Time which could be spent supporting vulnerable people in the community, as part of the fire services response to COVID-19.”