12 August 2009
Jersey Coastguard and Jersey Fire and Rescue Service are urging Islanders to be careful when using sky lanterns. Setting off sky lanterns, which use hot air from a tea light candle to lift the lanterns into the air, has become popular in the Island. But as a result Jersey Coastguard have received a high level of mistaken reports of red parachute distress flares being sighted, particularly in the Noirmont area.
Jersey Coastguard are urging people to get in touch if they are launching sky lanterns along the coast at dusk, following a spate of false alarms that has led to teams being sent out to investigate unnecessarily.
Deputy Harbour Master, Captain Peter Moore of Jersey Coastguard said: “We are not trying to be killjoys but, as with prearranged firework displays, we ask the public to get in touch with us beforehand if they are intending to let off sky lanterns after dusk, particularly if they are on the coast or near a beach. We take all reports from the public very seriously and continue to encourage anyone who suspects they have sighted a distress flare to contact the Coastguard.”
Jersey Fire and Rescue Service are also concerned about the lanterns landing in areas densely populated by dry gorse around the Island and the resulting possibility of them starting furze fires, particularly at this time of year.
Community Safety Manager Marc Le Cornu said: “We would advise people letting off these lanterns to exercise caution and not release them when the wind direction would result in blowing them back on shore, especially in areas surrounded by gorse.”
Those wanting to notify Jersey Coastguard ahead of any beach or sea-related activity that may be of interest should call 01534 447705.
gov.je