A CAMPAIGN has urged Ayr residents to avoid using light sky lanterns during clap for carers - as they are a fire risk.

Scottish Fire and Rescue Service (SFRS) has warned against putting “unnecessary pressure” on the emergency services by using the bright lanterns to show solidarity for NHS workers.

It comes after a campaign, called for the public to release lanterns from gardens and driveways in support for the NHS, follows the popular #ClapForOurCarers social media campaign.

Alasdair Perry, SFRS Deputy Assistant Chief Officer, said: “We fully appreciate that people want to show their support for the NHS, however we must discourage the lighting of sky lanterns.

“These lanterns may look striking when lit, but when released they pose a significant threat of fire and can have devastating consequences.

“Traditionally, this is a period when we see a high volume of large wildfires in Scotland, due to a build-up of dead vegetation in our countryside, and rising temperatures. We can’t risk adding a potential ignition to that mix.

“While I fully understand people wanting to show their support to the NHS, I would encourage people to find a different way to do this.”

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