Derbyshire fire service urge people NOT to use sky lanterns to thank NHS tomorrow

Sky lanterns featuring the NHS logo or Union Jack flags have been circulating for sale online and have been promoted as a good way to show support for the efforts of NHS and social care workers alongside clapping and cheering at 8pm every Thursday.

However, council and police bosses have today urged residents not to buy or let off the potentially dangerous sky lanterns – during ‘Clap for Carers’ or at any other time.

The lanterns – which often comprise of a thin wire frame inside a paper shell containing a tealight – pose a fire risk to property and wildlife as well as to livestock, fire chiefs say.

A spokesperson for Derbyshire Fire and Rescue Service said: “Sky lanterns are NOT advised to show support for key workers!

“Lanterns are a huge fire hazard, posing risk to a long list including wildlife, moorland, thatched properties and hazardous material sites.

“Lanterns could not only put additional pressure on the Fire Service, but add further strain on the NHS.

“So please, find another way to show your support by clapping on Thursdays or drawing a rainbow for your window. But please, avoid sky lanterns!”

Roy Wilsher, chair of The National Fire Chiefs Council (NFCC) said: “I am concerned this type of activity could not only put additional pressure on the fire service, but further strain on the NHS.”