PSEG: Don’t Let Mylar Balloons Put Zap On Power Lines (VIDEOS)

When mylar balloons meet power lines, it can mean the start of a frustrating day for the entire neighborhood. And as New Jersey ramps up for school graduation season, the state’s largest utility provider is asking celebration seekers to keep some basic safety tips in mind to avoid inadvertently causing power outages.

In other words… power lines plus mylar balloons equals “ZAP!” according to PSE&G officials.

On Monday, PSE&G issued a reminder for New Jersey residents getting ready to celebrate at local graduation events: “Keeping balloons away from power lines is essential to public safety.”

According to PSE&G:

“The metallic coating on Mylar balloons conducts electricity. Because of this, when a Mylar balloon touches a power line or floats into substation equipment it can cause a short circuit. This contact can lead to downed wires, power outages, fires and possible injuries.”

PSE&G offered the following safety tips:

• NEVER touch a power line. Do not attempt to retrieve a balloon, kite, or other types of toys or debris entangled in an overhead power line or substation. Call PSE&G to report the problem at 1-800-436-7734 so our crews can remove the item safely.
• Keep Mylar balloons and other decorations away from overhead power lines and all utility equipment.
• Keep balloons tethered at all times. Make sure balloons are secured to a weight that is heavy enough to prevent them from floating away.
• Always dispose of Mylar balloons properly by safely puncturing the balloon in several places to release the helium that otherwise could cause the balloon to float away.

Need further proof of the potential danger of mylar balloons and power lines? Check out the below videos.

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Photo: YouTube / pgevideo