Flying lanterns (sometimes people use their traditional name, Kongming lanterns) are small, lightweight hot air balloons usually made of tissue paper and bamboo or wire frames. Flying lanterns are sold in the market for cheap, less than Rp. 20,000, but you can easily make your own using household materials. (If you want to learn to make your own flying lanterns, click here.) Whether you want to release this hot air balloon for its original purpose, which is as part of a celebration of Asian culture or simply for fun, it is important that you observe safety measures to prevent fires and making sure everyone involved is having fun.
Step
Step 1. Choose a safe release location
In most cases, flying lanterns are completely safe and fun. Usually the flying lantern floats gently into the sky, the candle and the wick of the cloth inside will eventually run out of fuel, and the balloon will float down to the ground without causing any harm. However, since flying lanterns are powered by open flames and are often made from flammable tissue paper, there is always the slightest chance that the flying lanterns will burn out of control. Use common sense when choosing a release location. Here are some things to consider:
- Choose a place free from obstructions. Parking lots or large open fields are perfect for this purpose. Make sure that there are no trees, roofs, power lines, or other obstructions that could create a hazard in the vicinity of the location you choose to release the flying lanterns.
- Do not release flying lanterns in areas with dry wood nearby. Given the risk of fire, even if it is small, it is best not to release flying lanterns where there is dead wood, leaves, or dry grass. Keep in mind that flying lanterns can float for quite a long time before landing, and even if the fire that propels them has burned out at this stage, there is still a risk of fire from the remaining embers.
- Lastly, be aware of local regulations. Do not release flying lanterns in areas designated as illegal areas. Most jurisdictions have regulations regarding open fires and other types of entertainment involving open fires. Follow these rules - it's not worth it if you get fined/punished just for flying lanterns.
Step 2. Remove the lantern when the weather conditions are clear
Flying lanterns are designed to hang quietly in the sky, providing beautiful views from miles away. Try to release the flying lanterns on a quiet, clear, and windless night. Do not release the flying lanterns when the wind is strong or it may rain. Bad weather can derail your celebration by making it difficult for you to let go of the flying lanterns in the first place or even knocking your balloon out of the sky.
Step 3. Open your lantern
When you are ready to remove the lantern, inspect it carefully to make sure the hole in the bottom of the balloon is open and the balloon material is firmly attached to the frame. At this point, if you haven't had time to place the candle or the fuel-dipped wick, screw it into place securely at the bottom of the frame. If your lantern has a wire frame, you'll need to pull the wire through the center and wrap it around the fuel source.
Step 4. Fill the lantern with air
Before removing the lantern, you need to make sure that your balloon is fully inflated and filled with air so that none of the lantern material hangs in. This will not only ensure the lanterns are easier to fly, but will reduce the chances of the balloon material hitting the flames and catching fire. Hold the lantern by the bottom of the frame and gently swing it back and forth (as you would with a plastic trash can) until the lantern is completely filled.
Step 5. Turn on the fuel source
Whether you're using a cut towel dipped in fuel, candles, or some other kind of fuel, it's time to start a fire. Position the balloon vertically, ignite the fuel and allow the hot air from the fire to inflate the balloon. It may take about a minute or two for the lantern to lighten - while you wait, hold onto the sides of the lantern to keep it open and vertical.
If you're worried that your flying lantern will suddenly collapse, don't hesitate to have a hose or bucket of water nearby
Step 6. Remove the lantern and enjoy
Wait until you feel a gentle upward pull, then just release your balloon - no need to toss it into the air. Your flying lantern will soar into the night sky while emitting a beautiful warm glow. Enjoy this peaceful and magical experience.
If you feel sad imagining your flying lantern slowly drifting into the sky and out of sight, tie a non-combustible string to its frame so you can hold it like a kite
Step 7. Make a request (optional)
In some traditions, flying lanterns carry the wishes of the person or family who made them. If you or your family want to take part in this fun tradition, you can make a wish as the lantern floats into the sky or you can write a wish on the lantern material before you let it go.
