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.