Residents across Mansfield are being urged to avoid letting off sky lanterns tomorrow (Thursday) as part of the ‘Clap for Carers’ tribute to frontline staff fighting coronavirus.

Sky lanterns featuring the NHS logo or Union Jack flags have been circulating for sale online and have been promoted as a good way to show support for the efforts of NHS and social care workers alongside clapping and cheering at 8pm every Thursday.

However, council and police bosses have today urged residents not to buy or let off the potentially dangerous sky lanterns – during ‘Clap for Carers’ or at any other time.

The lanterns – which often comprise of a thin wire frame inside a paper shell containing a tealight – pose a fire risk to property and wildlife as well as to livestock, fire chiefs say.

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A spokesperson for Mansfield District Council said: “If you are planning to say thank you to key workers tomorrow night, please do not use sky lanterns.“Clap, cheer and make some noise. Stay safe. Stay at home, protect the NHS and save lives.”

A spokesperson for Ashfield Fire Station added: “Please do not light sky lanterns, they can start fires in unintended areas.”

Roy Wilsher, chair of The National Fire Chiefs Council (NFCC) said: “All emergency services are currently under unprecedented pressure due to COVID-19, and I am concerned this type of activity could not only put additional pressure on the fire service, but further strain on the NHS.”