Paper lanterns come in two types: electrically lit and flame lit. Because of the heat emitted from the bulb, starting a fire is a danger associated with electrically lit lanterns, but the risk can be minimized to a safe level if proper procedures are followed.

Electrically-lit paper lanterns usually come with a long cord that has a socket on the end. The cords come in many different lengths, ten or fifteen feet being by far the most common. In homes, these cords are often run up walls and hung from the ceiling by hooks.

When hanging lanterns, ensure that an adequate number of hooks are used to hold the cord; this helps avoid the lantern falling from the ceiling. We recommend a hook every twelve inches to adequately hold the cord and to keep regions from hanging low enough to be hit.

When using electrically-lit lanterns that rest on the ground, ensure that they are placed in a location where they will not be knocked over, and be sure that the cord is not in a place where one might trip over it. Usually these lanterns are used for dim lighting at night, often outdoors, so a black cord may be a tripping hazard if not properly placed.

The cords have a maximum recommended wattage. Ensure that you follow this wattage; do not use a stronger bulb than recommended to avoid the risk of fire. Usually cords can support up to a sixty-watt bulb, but there are cords that support up to one hundred watts for home use. Cords exist that support up to six hundred and sixty watt bulbs; these are often used in film production for lanterns called “chinaballs.”

When a bulb too powerful is used in a paper lantern, a fire can be started. More often, though, the socket casing will melt, because the heat gets trapped in the lantern.

Both incandescent and compact fluorescent bulbs (CFCs) can be used in paper lanterns, but halogen lights are not recommended due to the high level of heat they produce. We recommend the use of CFC bulbs in paper lanterns; they generate very little heat, so any risk of fire or melting is negated.

Extra care must be taken when placing the bulb inside the lantern. When using an incandescent bulb, we recommend a distance of at least three to four inches from the closest side of the paper shell; this helps lower the risk of the paper catching fire. When using a CFC bulb, any distance is from the paper is acceptable, as very little heat is generated from these bulbs. Still, to reduce the risk of fire even further, we recommend the bulb does not come in direct contact with the paper.

When buying pre-assembled electrically-lit lanterns, the risk of fire is negligible if the correct wattage bulb is used. When assembling a manufactured lantern, it is best to follow the instructions to avoid risk of fire or melting; the correct wattage bulb can usually be found in the instructions that come with the kit.

The lanterns come two ways: flame lit or electrical bulb lit. Because of the heat emitted from the flame, starting a fire is a danger inherent flame lit lanterns.

There are two main types of flame lit lanterns: hanging candle lanterns and ground candle lanterns.

With a hanging candle lantern, the lantern itself hangs from the ceiling or other object, and the candle is suspended in the middle of the lantern. Most purchased lanterns will come with an easy set up. When bought fully assembled, there is often a container held in place by metal poles. A candle can be gently placed in the middle of this. This can be safely lit, as the correct placement of the candle is built in already. When a lantern is bought that needs assembly, simply follow the instructions and the candle should be safe to light. If you are making your own paper lantern, please read our post about making a lantern. Remember that the candle should have a five to six inch distance from the closest part of the paper; for this reason, lanterns smaller than ten inches in diameter are not recommended because of risk of fire. If you would like a smaller lantern, please consider the use of electrically lit lanterns.

Placement of the hanging candle lantern is important so as to avoid getting hit. Place the lanterns out of the way of people’s heads and where they are likely to get hit.

When the candle in the lantern rests on the ground, it is a ground candle lantern. The “ground” in this case does not always have to be the ground per se, as some lanterns have a bottom base that the candle can rest on; these are another type of ground candle lantern. The simplest types of these lanterns are made of grocery bags with a candle stuck in the middle of them, which rests on the ground. More sophisticated designs are made like a table, with four legs supporting a base which the candle rests on. Safety with these lanterns is the same, five to six inches is the recommended distance from the closest part of the paper. Manufactured lanterns that require assembly will work fine if the instructions are followed, and pre-assembled lanterns can be safely lit with no problem. When making your own lantern, keep an open hole of at least five inches in diameter above the flame and at least five to six inches distance from the closest part of the paper.

Another danger with ground candle lanterns is the possibility of being knocked over. Extra care must be taken to place the lanterns out of the way so as to avoid an accidental fall.

When lighting both kinds of candles, you should remove the candle, light it, and place it carefully back in its holder. If you have a long barbeque lighter, you may light it while it is in its proper place, but take extra care to avoid lighting the edges of the paper, as barbeque lighter flames can be big. It is recommended that you turn the flame down to its lowest setting.

Flame-lit lanterns must be carefully put together, lit, and placed, but they are not dangerous if the proper procedures are followed. With proper care, these lanterns can provide a beautiful source of light and can add to the colors and aesthetics of your home or garden.