Calls to ban sky lanterns as public fail to pay heed to their dangers

 

 

If you were out at the stroke of midnight during New Year’s Eve celebrations, you will probably have noticed the message about sky lanterns just isn’t sinking in with some people.

In the  run up to the biggest party night of the year, the RSPCA urged revellers not to use sky lanterns.

But as many lanterns began to float up from back gardens across Bristol, it’s clear that the campaign needs more clout.

Also commonly known as Chinese Lanterns, the flaming bags of fire are released into the sky, going on the kill or maim wildlife, livestock, people and cause house fires.

Spokesperson for the RSPCA, David Bowles said: “Sadly, many people are unaware of the potentially deadly consequences the release of sky lanterns can have for wildlife and other animals.

“Their sale has already been banned in countries such as Austria, Germany, and Malta and we would like to see local authorities up and down the country ban their use so this needless suffering can end.”

For more information and to help stop lanterns being released on council land, visit: