SOAP LAKE — After concerns surfaced online about fire danger and environmental impacts, Grant County Fire District 7 Chief Erick Brittain and Chamber of Commerce President Karen Woodhouse say the upcoming Lantern Festival will be safe, supervised, environmentally mindful and flame‑free. 

Brittian said the chamber originally proposed open‑flame sky lanterns, but the idea was immediately rejected.  

“Absolutely not,” he said. “We mitigated with LED‑lit helium balloons, fully tethered to the ground. No open flame, and nothing will be released into the air.” 

He added that all balloons will be anchored with stakes or weights, monitored on site and not allowed to fly if winds are too strong.  

“This event is 100% safe,” Brittain said. “There’s nothing to worry about.” 

Brittain said GCFD7 will be present at the event.  

Woodhouse said the chamber also has a cleanup plan for any lanterns or floating displays used on the lake.  

“We have a boat ready to collect anything afterward,” she said. “We are committed to safety and the environment.” 

Both said misinformation caused unnecessary alarm. 

“We’re trying to bring a fun event to Soap Lake in the middle of winter,” Woodhouse said. “Everything we’re doing is safe and planned carefully.” 

The Lantern Festival is scheduled for Feb. 21 at the Soap Lake Natural Spa and Resort.