Balloon Warnings Now Include Power Lines

Add power lines to the list of growing concerns related to Mylar balloons, officials from the Connecticut's largest electricity provider said this week.

Officials from Eversource Energy Issued the warning Wednesday in anticipation of outdoor gatherings for Mother’s Day weekend and graduation celebrations. It is a similar warning to the traditional springtime advisory sent out by environmental officials.

"Before firing up the grill, be sure to take precautions to ensure any Mylar balloons used to liven up the festivities won’t pose a threat to the electric system," Eversource officials said in the advisory. "In recognition of National Electrical Safety Month, Eversource is reminding customers that Mylar balloons can cause power outages and even pose a significant safety risk."

The silver metallic coating on Mylar balloons is a conductor of electricity, Eversource officials said. If a balloon makes contact with power lines, it can damage the lines and equipment, and cause power outages, Eversource officials said.

"In some cases it could even cause an electrical surge impacting nearby homes,” said Bob Coates, vice president of safety at Eversource. “It only takes one balloon to create a potential hazard for customers. “Thousands of our customers experience outages each year as a result of Mylar balloons. By handling balloons with care, you can help prevent these disruptions and ensure the safety of others.”

Here are some balloon tips from Eversource:

• Make sure balloons are secured and can’t fly away
• Never release a Mylar balloon outside
• Keep all balloons away from power lines
• Never use metallic ribbon with Mylar balloons
• Never tie Mylar balloons to yourself or a child
• Always deflate Mylar balloons completely and dispose of them properly
• Never attempt to retrieve a balloon that is tangled in electric lines

Tangled balloons can be reported via Eversource at 800-286-2000.

About this time each year, the Connecticut Department of Energy and Environmental Protection sends out a reminder that a state law prohibits any person or any group to intentionally release 10 or more helium balloons per day.

No fine is mentioned in the outline of the statute, but an infraction ticket can be issued.

DEEP Wildlife biologist Kathy Herz said the law is designed to educate the public. She also said the violations can have a big effect.

Herz said, for example, a springtime breeze can carry balloons for miles, taking them from points inland right to Long Island Sound and the four species of sea turtles that inhabit Connecticut waters.

The balloons deflate and look like jellyfish, a favorite in a sea turtle's diet, she said. The balloons can then get clogged in the digestive system, she said.

A citizen group called ballonsblow.org, also likes to to point out the "dangers of balloon releases."

See more about balloon warnings here.

Patch File Photo