Public urged not to release sky lanterns in support of NHS

The fire service is urging people not to light sky lanterns in a show of support for the NHS.

A campaign on social media has called for lanterns to be released from gardens and driveways in a show of solidarity with the health service.

But the emergency service says the lanterns can lead to wildlfires - and pose a danger to humans and wildlife.

Alasdair Perry, Scottish Fire and Rescue Service deputy assistant chief officer, said: "We fully appreciate that people want to show their support for the NHS, however we must discourage the lighting of sky lanterns.

"These lanterns may look striking when lit, but when released they pose a significant threat of fire and can have devastating consequences - for rural environments, property and wildlife.

"This is clearly a challenging time for the emergency services due to Covid-19, and while the Scottish Fire and Rescue Service maintains a high resilience across Scotland, we would seek to avoid any unnecessary demand on our service so we can target our resources most effectively in supporting our partners and meeting the needs of Scotland's communities.

"Traditionally, this is a period when we see a high volume of large wildfires in Scotland, due to a build-up of dead vegetation in our countryside, and rising temperatures. We can't risk adding a potential ignition to that mix.

"While I fully understand people wanting to show their support to the NHS, I would encourage people to find a different way to do this.

"Our message is clear: please do not release lit sky lanterns, and risk potentially placing unnecessary pressure on the emergency services."

It comes as people prepare to take part in the latest #ClapForOurCarers event tonight at 8pm.