MCA Podcast on Chinese Lanterns
Chinese and Love Lanterns are becoming more common in our skys both at night and during the day. Large in size with a bright burning light these can sometimes be confused to that of UFO’s or more seriously distress flares. To ensure that Land, Sea and Air Search and Rescue assets are not deployed unnecessary and so we do not spoil your fun please follow these basic steps if setting them off near the coast.
Contact your local Coastguard Maritime Rescue Co-ordination Centre (for Inverness and Loch Ness area it is Aberdeen Coastguard 01224 592334)
Advise the Coastguard what time and place you anticipate setting off the Lanterns
If you wish provide a contact number in case we need to call you back
If you follow these simple steps it will save resources and possibly other lives
If you think you have sighted a RED distress flare please Dial 999 and ask for COASTGUARD or call COASTGUARD on Marine VHF Ch16
