The public are being urged not to light and release sky lanterns in a show of support for the NHS by Cumbria Fire and Rescue Service.
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 and key workers.
But the emergency service says the lanterns can lead to wildlfires – and pose a danger to humans and wildlife.
Cumbria Fire and Rescue Service area manager Craig Drinkald, who is head of community safety said: “Sky lanterns are a fire hazard which pose a risk to people, property and livestock, so we would ask people not to use them under any circumstances. If a sky lantern causes a fire, it could see firefighters spending valuable time dealing with a large scale incident. Time which could be spent supporting vulnerable people in the community as part of the emergency response to the Coronavirus pandemic.
“We fully understand that people want to show their support for the NHS at this extremely difficult time, but there are much safer ways to do it. The single most important action we can all take in fighting Covid-19 is to stay home in order to protect the NHS and save lives. You can also join the weekly Clap for Carers (tonight, Thursday) to show appreciation for the NHS, carers and key workers.”
Mark Eccles, head of park management for the Lake District National Park Authority, added: “The land in the Lake District is very dry at the moment so we’re asking people not to use sky lanterns or fireworks. They can cause wildfires, property damage, litter and a danger to animals in our rural communities across the National Park. The NHS and other emergency service staff are doing a fantastic job in dealing with Covid19, they mustn’t be distracted by having to deal with avoidable fires.”
