Plan to Ban Sky Lanterns

The Isle of Man Office of Fair Trading (OFT) is asking for people’s view in regard to its proposal to introduce Regulations prohibiting the sale of sky lanterns in the Isle of Man.

Chairman of the OFT, David Quirk MHK says “there have been a number of concerns expressed in recent years about the safety of sky lanterns or, as they are often, called ‘Chinese’ lanterns.”

“In September 2014, the Manx National Farmers’ Union called for legislation to be introduced banning sale and the release of sky lanterns in the Island following a post-mortem on a cow which had died having ingested part of a sky lantern.”

“Very importantly, there are also issues with regard to public safety. In discussions between the OFT and the Chief Fire Officer, it became clear that there were significant concerns about the potential risk to the public through fire and personal injury such as burns. We don’t want to wait till there is a serious incident before taking action”.

The OFT would welcome the public’s views and any comments people wish to make on the proposal. Copies of the consultation document can be obtained from the OFT by telephoning (01624) 686500 or from its consultations webpage

The closing date for comments is 5 pm on Friday 3 July 2015.