A CAMPAIGN to reduce the use of Chinese style sky lanterns by Avon Fire & Rescue Service (AF&RS) is being supported by local councils.


Due the risks posed by the paper lanterns, chief fire officer, Kevin Pearson, wrote to the chief executives of the four councils in the former Avon area urging increased controls both over their use on council land and through the event licensing process.


Bath & North East Somerset, Bristol, North Somerset and South Gloucestershire councils have now confirmed they already have, or plan to introduce bans on the release of lanterns from council owned land.


Mr Pearson said: “I’m pleased that councils in our local area recognise the risks posed by sky lanterns and are taking active steps to limit their use.


“This is a positive step and we will continue to work together to improve community safety in this area.”


The paper lanterns, which are small hot air balloons powered by a flame suspended on a wire frame, are increasingly popular at events and celebrations.


However, the Chief Fire Officers Association (CFOA) is just one of the groups that have called for greater controls over their use.


Mr Pearson added: “We share the view of CFOA and do not endorse the use of sky lanterns due to the risks they pose. The floating lanterns contain a naked flame which represents a significant fire risk to life and property when they come down to earth."


A number of councils supporting the campaign have also agreed to explore whether requests for event licenses could be refused if there is a planned release of the lanterns.