You may be planning a celebration and looking to use fun decorations to help get everyone in the spirit. Keep safety in mind when using balloons outdoors.
Metal-coated balloons, or Mylars, can cause electric infrastructure problems and pose a public safety risk. They are linked to thousands of power outages each year. But there are ways to reduce the risk and safely use these balloons.
WHAT’S THE PROBLEM?
A gust of wind can grab the balloon — filled with helium or not — break it loose from the string, and blow it into overhead power lines.
The metallic coating can conduct electricity and cause a short circuit or power surge when in contact with the lines.
This can lead to large-scale power outages, melting of electrical wires, and fires. Any of these can lead to possible injuries and property damage.
Helium-filled balloons that float away can drift for days and miles and come down anywhere. They are a risk to power lines and can also be dangerous to animals.
REDUCE THE RISK
Keep them away from power lines.
Tie helium-filled balloons to a weight that’s heavy enough to prevent them from floating away.
Keep the weight attached until the balloons are deflated.
WHAT TO DO
If you see a Mylar balloon in contact with a power line or in an electric substation, never attempt to retrieve it yourself.
Keep yourself and all other items and people at least 20 feet away.
Call the electric utility or 911.
Stay far away from a downed or low-hanging power line.
Always assume downed or low-hanging lines are electrified and dangerous.
