31 October 2012
Common
Sense decision on Chinese Lanterns
The Government’s decision to take a close look at the risks posed by
Chinese lanterns, or Sky Lanterns, is a breakthrough for common sense –
according to the CLA in the South West.
But with Bonfire Night approaching, the CLA’s South
West Director, John Mortimer, is asking people to think again before they
include sky lanterns as part of their celebrations.
The Association, which has been part of the
campaign for action to minimise the potential for damage from the lanterns,
believes that the risk of fire to land and property, and threat to people,
livestock and pets simply cannot justify the continued use of what many people
are now coming to appreciate is far more than just a decorative light
in the night sky.
CLA South West Director, John Mortimer, said: “Clearly the
Minister has accepted our arguments that these devices do
pose a threat to livestock, crops and property. Even some manufacturers seem to
accept that there is an element of significant risk
because of the detailed safety instructions they publish – but we say they are
actually a potentially lethal fire risk.”
As well as the fire risk, the wire frames used in many of the
lanterns have caused injury and proven fatal to livestock.
“Although there are safety instructions on many packs, the
responsibility remains firmly with the person who releases the naked flame -
and they have no control over where it lands. I would urge anyone considering
using sky lanterns to think again and ask themselves if they would set one off
towards their own house.”
Even in open countryside, dry crops such as hay
and straw, barns, houses, farmyards, and woodland, people and animals could be
put at risk. There is also widespread concern among the emergency services
– particularly the coastguard - about their use.
“It cannot be right that one group of people’s so-called
celebrations can cause at best anxiety, and at worst real damage, to others so
we are please to read that the Government has decided to take this issue
seriously and have a proper look at the safety issues,” he said.
-Ends-
