Fire agency warns of burn hazards posed by sky lanterns

RANCHO SANTA FE (CNS) - A northern San Diego County emergency services agency put out a warning Monday, Aug. 3 about combustion hazards posed by sky lanterns -- a type of illegal, free-floating paper kite that uses the heat from an onboard open flame for its buoyancy.

In recent years, the hot air balloon-like airborne decorations have become increasingly popular at local weddings and other celebratory events, launched into the nighttime air to create a glowing overhead display, according to the Rancho Santa Fe Fire Protection District.

``Unfortunately, sky lanterns pose a serious fire risk,''...