FIREFIGHTERS are warning the public of sky lanterns causing a risk of fires and a dangers to wildlife.

Poole fire station shared in a post that sky lanterns are often used for celebrations or memorials but they are  “strongly discouraged” due to its risks.

It is hard to predict how far a paper lantern will travel, or where it will end up, and the fire could spread to a combustible service when it lands.

The fire service suggests choosing a safer alternative to remember loves ones such as planting a tree, placing a memorial plaque or a arranging a memory walk.

Poole fire station said: "While sky lanterns have long been popular for celebrations and memorials, we strongly discourage their use due to them being both a fire hazard and a danger to wildlife, pets and people.

“There is no way to know how far the lantern will travel, for how long, and where it will end up. There is also no guarantee that the paper outer is fire retardant, or that the fuel cell will be fully extinguished and cooled when the lantern does land, increasing the chances of a fire developing if it comes into contact with a combustible surface.

“If you are looking for way to celebrate the life of a loved one, as a safer alternative, why not consider planting a tree, placing a memorial plaque or even arrange a memory walk.”