Paper Lantern Safety Guide

🔥 Fire Safety — Critical

NEVER use real candles, live lights, or any open flame with lanterns.

Lanterns are decorative items and not toys. Keep out of reach of children and use with adult supervision.

✅ Safe Lighting

LED lights are the safest option for paper lanterns — they produce minimal heat and won’t damage the lantern material. The following lighting options are recommended:

• Battery-operated LED lights (for ambience only)
• LED string lights
• Electric cord kits with LED bulbs

LED bulbs are recommended because they produce minimal heat, are safe for extended use, and are less likely to damage lantern material. If using non-LED bulbs, follow the cord manufacturer’s limits, maintain clearance from lantern material, and do not leave unattended.

Battery LED lights are safer outdoors from an electrical-shock perspective than plug-in lighting. They are not weatherproof unless labeled outdoor-rated — keep dry when possible. Batteries are not included and must be purchased separately.

Brightness note: Our battery LED lights provide a decorative glow and ambience — they are not intended as the primary light source for an event space.

Paper Lantern Outdoor Use Guidelines

✅ Paper lanterns can be used outdoors under sheltered or protected conditions:

• Calm, dry weather
• Covered or protected areas such as tents, covered patios, pergolas, or under tree cover
• If weather is uncertain, choose battery LED lighting and plan for quick removal

❌ Do not use paper lanterns outdoors in:

• Rain or storms
• Any weather that causes lanterns to swing, spin, or pull on hanging points
• Conditions where paper lanterns could become damp or wet

Wind damage: Wind can dislodge the wire frame, causing the lantern to fall. The impact can bend the internal wire ribs, permanently losing the lantern’s round shape. If lanterns start moving noticeably, remove them.

Electrical lighting outdoors: If using electric cord kits or string lights outside:

• Use only products labeled outdoor-rated
• Keep plugs and connectors dry and off the ground
• Use GFCI protection for outdoor plug-in use where available or required
• Unplug and remove if weather changes or moisture is present

Reference (Ontario): Electrical Safety Authority guidance on outdoor receptacles and GFCI protection — [ESA Bulletin (PDF)]

Paper Lantern Installation Safety

✅ Do:

• Hang securely and test before your event
• Keep lanterns away from heat sources and flames
• Double-check hanging points, especially outdoors
• Have a quick take-down plan if weather changes

❌ Don’t:

• Use damaged lanterns
• Underestimate wind movement
• Leave plug-in electrical equipment exposed to moisture

Paper Lantern Storage

Store paper lanterns completely dry in their original packaging to maintain their shape and extend their life.

• Remove batteries from LED lights if storing long-term
• Paper lanterns can be reused if stored properly
• Nylon and fabric lanterns are very reusable

⚠️ Plastic Packaging Warning

PLASTIC BAGS CAN BE DANGEROUS.

To avoid danger of suffocation, keep plastic bags away from babies and children. Do not place bags in cribs, beds, carriages, or playpens. This bag is not a toy.

Reference (Canada): Government of Canada regulations related to plastic bag suffocation warning text — [Justice Laws Website]

Contact Us

Have a question about safe paper lantern use or setup?

Email: sales@torontopaperlanterns.com Call or text: 1-647-955-8129

Enjoy your celebration! 🎉