Plea issued over sky lanterns in Eastbourne

Emergency services say they are a danger and could involve frontline key workers having to deal with issues surrounding them rather than getting on with the fight against the coronavirus.

There have been reports of people setting off fireworks and sky lanterns to show appreciation for the NHS and front line workers on Thursday evenings as the nation claps for health workers.

But today, Eastbourne Police, the fire service, coastguards and council urged people not to light sky lanterns.

A Sussex Police spokesperson said, “Emergency services across Sussex are pleading with residents to not light sky lanterns in ‘support of the NHS’.

“While these lanterns are undoubtedly a popular and beautiful sight, the potential damage they can cause is significant. Instead, show your support by clapping.”

An East Sussex Fire and Rescue Service spokesperson said, “We will not advocate the use of sky lanterns and do not believe they should be used under any circumstances.

“If a sky lantern causes a fire, it could see firefighters spending valuable time dealing with what could be a complex and large-scale incident.

“Time which could be spent supporting vulnerable people in the community, as part of the fire services response to COVID-19.”

A spokesperson at HM Coastguard said, “Please don’t use Chinese lanterns at the coast - they can be mistaken for distress flares. ❌

“If we receive a suspected flare report, we’ll always investigate it which can tie up resources. Show appreciation for the NHS in a safer way.“

Eastbourne council leader David Tutt said, “While I completely understand the urge to make a noise and be visible, sky lanterns and fireworks create a fire hazard and a danger to your neighbours. Grab a couple of saucepans, a bell or a horn … or just shout and clap your hearts out at 8pm every Thursday.”