Farm buildings, livestock and crops at risk from lanterns

17:02:20 4th February 2010

Farm buildings are being put at risk of fire damage due to the increasing trend to release Chinese lanterns at outdoor events, it has been claimed.

The Farmers Weekly reports that producers across the country are complaining that the traditional lanterns are causing problems relating to livestock, buildings and crops.

The news provider stated that the National Farmer's Union (NFU) had written to the government highlighting its concerns over the lanterns and their associated risks.

South-West spokesman for the NFU Ian Johnson was reported in the Mid Devon Star as stating that the popular party toys posed significant risks to fields and crops.

Acres of farmland, buildings and crops could be set alight because of the flame which burns inside of the lantern, Mr Johnson said.

"If we have a very dry summer, particularly towards harvest time when things are tinder dry, there is a particular danger to crops and even bracken."