Sky lanterns banned over fire danger
Posted by editor (editor) on Aug 27 2009
2009 >>

A 42 day ban on the supply of paper sky lanterns has been issued by Minister for Fair Trading Peter Lawlor after the Queensland Fire Service flagged the product’s potential fire danger.

The lanterns are generally made from oiled rice paper and a wire or bamboo frame with a paraffin wax fuel source and are often used at weddings and other festivities.

“In consultation with Queensland Fire and Rescue Service, I have approved an immediate 42 day ban on the supply of sky lanterns,” Mr Lawlor said.

“The current weather conditions mean that these products, which contain a naked flame and can burn for several minutes, pose a significant fire and injury risk if they land in bush land or become stuck in tree while still alight.”

“The sky lanterns which fall under the ban have the following features;

- Is constructed from paper or fabric on a frame which is open at one end;
- Relies on an open flame as the heat source to heat the air inside the lantern; and
- Is intended to lift freely in the atmosphere.

“This ban will allow the Office of Fair Trading in conjunction with other agencies to investigate whether a permanent ban should be put in place.”

“Any community group or festival organiser that have already purchased sky lanterns for use need to talk urgently with the Queensland Fire and Rescue Service urgently about their use.

Breaches of the Fair Trading Act can result in fines of up to $54,000 for individuals and $270,000 for businesses.

More information about product safety and a list of items that are currently banned in Queensland can be found at www.fairtrading.qld.gov.au

Last changed: Oct 06 2009 at 4:24 PM