Sky Lanterns Continue to Ignite Concern Among the Equestrian Community
Equestrian News:: Everything Horse
As harmless as they first may seem, sky lanterns can prove fatal to horses, other livestock and wildlife. One single candle rising into the sky can just as easily float into a field, hay barn, or a stable yard/cattle shed causing fires, irreversible damages and in some cases, multiple deaths.
Over recent weeks, it’s understandable that those who have lost loved ones are trying to celebrate their lives during a time where funerals are starting to be banned. Cherished family members are dying alone in what has proved to be a catastrophic turn of events in modern history. Others have shown their support to the NHS by the lighting of lanterns. However, agricultural workers and the equestrian community are pleading for it not to be done in this way. While unintentional, the consequences of doing so not only cause danger but arouse anger and concern.
Social media has successfully been used as a vessel in raising awareness. Platforms such as Facebook has seen users post images that act as a stark reminder of the consequences of an innocent act, that was meant only to be a symbolic occasion.
The RSPCA has launched a campaign to encourage community members to email their local council to urge the importance of a ban. The #endskylitter campaign hopes to bring an end to the unintentional suffering to horses, livestock and other wildlife caused by the lighting of a lantern or by the release of balloons.
While there is no suggestion that celebration should not be made for those who continue to fight the ‘invisible enemy’, or for those who have lost their lives as a result of the virus, horse owners and agriculturalists are asking for it to be done in a way that doesn’t involve the potential loss of more lives.
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Suzanne Ashton, Founder of Everything Horse (Est, 2012), has a BA Hons in Marketing Management and a Diploma in Equine Science. Suzanne has ridden and owned horses all her life and has twelve years of experience in marketing, writing, design, SEO, and website creation.