The Press and Journal (Inverness, Highlands, and Islands)
Sky lanterns not such a bright idea, says union Appeal: Bonfire night devices pose risk to farm buildings and animals
NFU Scotland (NFUS) has urged members of the public to consider their agricultural neighbours and avoid the use of sky lanterns as bonfire night approaches.
The farmers’ union has long called for a ban on sky lanterns as there is no way to guarantee them landing safely.
The lanterns, which are constructed from paper with a wire or wooden frame with a candle inside, have been known to get mixed up in feed, such as silage and grain, and be accidentally eaten by livestock.
The union says sky lanterns also pose a “serious risk” to farm buildings and many have been known to set fire to sheds, causing serious damage and loss to the farm business.
The NFUS said any such incident this year would cause “significant financial hardship” for farmers and crofters due to hay and straw being at a premium.
“Although these lanterns seem to be innocent fun, they can in fact be very dangerous both for farm animals, who often end up ingesting them, and farm buildings which are extremely susceptible to fire damage from them,” said NFUS animal health and welfare policy manager, Penny Middleton.
“I would discourage people from incorporating these devices into their displays this year and ask them to consider farmers and crofters, who could end up paying a heavy cost for their brief enjoyment.”
She praised local authorities who have already banned the use of sky lanterns, and called on others to do the same.
“We would also ask that you consider any neighbouring livestock and other animals when planning a fireworks display, even taking simple measures to warn animal keepers of a planned display can allow them to take measures to protect their stock,” added Ms Middleton.
“Bonfire night is a long standing and well-loved tradition in the UK and we do not want to be spoil anyone’s fun.
“However, taking the time to consider the impact of any display – planned or otherwise – will ensure that all can enjoy this traditional, colourful but noisy time of year.” Advice on how to improve lamb selection and presentation for slaughter will be given at a series of meetings later this month.
The Meat the Market events, organised by Quality Meat Scotland (QMS), will focus on market specification, carcase weights, grading and presentation.
Woodheads in Turriff is hosting two lamb focused meetings on November 14 and 15.
QMS knowledge transfer specialist, Heather McCalman, said: “Presenting clean animals in the target specification in terms of weight, conformation and fat for a particular market can boost returns to farmers.
“These workshops are a great chance to see the whole process and understand the buyers’ needs and the ultimate customer requirements.”
Places are limited and anyone wishing to attend is asked to contact Dr McCalman on 07766 330 911 or email at info@qmscotland.co.uk. The meetings are free to attend, but only open to people aged 18 or over.