Sask. fire officials warn public about flying lanterns

After several fires were started in Saskatchewan, the provincial fire commissioner's office is warning the public about "flying lanterns."

The office say the contraptions, which look like small hot-air balloons, are made of lightweight material and powered by a flame, poses a significant risk of causing forest or grass fires.

Three land fires have already been reported to the province's forest fire protection branch and a Saskatchewan municipality, according to a news release from the Public Safety Ministry on Wednesday.

The three fires started by the lanterns also known as "sky lanterns" were all small and quickly snuffed out, but the potential is there for something worse, the ministry said.

"The potential for larger forest or field fires started by a flying lantern remains a significant threat," the ministry said.

There have been 277 forest fires in the province this year, although none of them has been blamed on a flying lantern.

When released, the lanterns whichcan bebought online can fly to great heights and drift with the wind.

They're supposed to stay in the air until the candle burns out.

However, there's no way to control the devices once they're released, and if they land in a treetop, or on a building, they can start a fire, the commissioner said.

Ontario's fire commissioner is calling for a ban, which Saskatchewan is supporting.

In the meantime, the fire commissioner is asking retailers to take the product off the shelves.

The fire commissioner is also encouraging fire departments to visit parks and campgrounds on Canada Day to warn people about the potential hazards.