Are Sky Lanterns Safe? Some Lawmakers Want To Ban The Use Of These Popular Devices

The other night a neighbor to the south of me was lighting and sending sky lanterns into the sky.  As they floated and drifted over my house I started thinking about the safety of these devices that have become popular over the last few years.  It also made me think back to a reception I was at a few years ago where one of these lanterns got stuck in a tree - still burning.

So, just how safe are sky lanterns?  And, what are the ramifications if they don't burn themselves out before they fall to the ground?  Who would be responsible for the destruction the would cause and how would the police find out who set them off?

The National Association of Fire Marshals is seeking to ban the use of sky lanterns.  Obviously the manufacturers of the trendy balloons is fighting the challenge.

Have you ever lit sky lanterns?  Have you ever had a mishap with one?