To think Chinese lanterns must be banned after the fire in Germany

[ChardonnaysDistantCousin]

Animals died horribly and needlessly and lanterns with New Year's wishes were found at the scene.

www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-europe-50964956

With the greatest respect, if banning something leads to a restriction in sales, then a fraction of people interested in the product will go to the lengths of making it out of string and whatnot. After all, it's all about instant gratification and next day delivery now.

Of course a public information campaign is needed, but I don't see why this cannot happen alongside a ban.

Agree about sprinklers.

Ban them; ban them from being sold, with vendors including internet bearing responsibility (presumably there are already mechanisms to attempt to deal with selling banned or restricted products?); maybe prosecute anyone who launches them with attempted arson - because that's what the result can be.

I'd rather be a killjoy than a kill horse, ape, monkey, owl etc etc.

Banning things rarely works. You might be better off with some public information campaigns.

Do both. Ban them and have a public information campaign explaining why.

YANBU, I've never understood how these are allowed to be a "thing!"
The first time I came across them was when I attended a wedding a few years ago and one got released, I 'd never heard of them before (must be sheltered lol)]
First thing I thought was WTAF is with sending a burning lantern up into the sky, isn't that just asking for trouble as no-one knows where it will come down?!
Everyone seemed fine with it though so thought it must just be me being my usual over cautious self but glad to see others see the dangers too!
Seems utter madness.