Md. Bans 'Sky Lanterns,' Citing Fire Hazard
PIKESVILLE, Md. (AP) -- The Maryland State Fire Marshal's Office says it's banning a type of burning, airborne decoration called a "sky lantern."
The agency said Friday that the balloon-shaped devices can return to earth and start fires.
Sky lanterns are popular in East Asia. They're typically made of oiled rice paper on a bamboo frame. A lighted candle or fuel cell heats the air inside the device, causing it to soar upward.
The agency says some other states have also banned the devices.
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