NFU Scotland calls for Bonfire Night sky lantern ban
Scots celebrating Bonfire Night this year are being urged to do so without using sky lanterns.
Speaking ahead of Guy Fawkes Night on Thursday, NFU Scotland (NFUS)welcomed Highland Council's ban on Chinese lanterns at displays and called on more local authorities to do the same.
It also asked those setting off fireworks to consider nearby livestock and sheds.
NFU Scotland’s animal health and welfare policy manager, Penny Johnston, said: "We believe people can have a great evening while taking the needs of those who live and work in the countryside into consideration.
"Sky lanterns are seemingly innocent devices, and are beautiful to look at, but they can cause untold damage as there is no control over where these burning structures of paper, metal and wood decide to land.
"Across the UK, there have been many reports now of fires started by lanterns and harm to the health of livestock when lanterns have landed in farmers’ fields and been eaten.
"There is a further risk to stock when grass is cut and ensiled for winter feed, and the wire is chopped up and subsequently contained in hay or silage.
"We applaud the action already taken against sky lanterns by seven local authorities in Scotland and we would look to other councils to take their responsibilities as seriously.
"Fireworks are a long established part of the celebrations at this time of year. Given the noise and bright lights, it is unsurprising that each bonfire night also brings a few reports of cattle, sheep, horses and dogs being scared and traumatised when fireworks are set off irresponsibly.
"Although winter is approaching, the fantastic autumn weather means that many livestock can still be found in the fields around Scotland’s cities, towns and villages. Taking the time to inform their keepers of any planned or private firework displays may prevent any unnecessary suffering for animals.
"Similarly, where livestock have been housed for the winter in sheds that are close to public places, consideration should be given to the wellbeing of the animals before any fireworks are set off nearby."
The NFUS said seven Scottish local authorities - Aberdeen City, Aberdeenshire, Falkirk, Highland, Shetland Islands, Orkney Islands and Angus – have already banned the release of sky lanterns and/or helium balloons.