You may be planning a celebration this summer and looking to use fun decorations to help get everyone in the spirit. If you’re thinking about using balloons outdoors, you should keep safety in mind.

Metal coated balloons, or Mylars, can cause significant problems and pose a public safety risk. This kind
of balloon is linked to thousands of power outages each year. But Indiana Electric Cooperatives wants you to know there are some ways to reduce the risk and safely use these balloons.

It’s helpful to know why these metal-coated balloons can cause issues. For starters, 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.

If this happens, 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.

To reduce the risk of outages and injuries associated with Mylar balloons, remember to keep them away from power lines. In addition, make sure to tie helium-filled ones to a weight that’s heavy enough to prevent them from floating away. Also, keep the weight attached until the balloons are deflated.

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.

When spending time outside this summer, stay far away from a downed or low-hanging power line. Always assume downed or low-hanging lines are electrified and dangerous. Call 911 immediately if you see a downed line.

Remember, balloons can be fun additions to your parties this summer. Just make sure you use caution and practice safety with Mylar balloons.

Chris Adam is a freelance writer from Lafayette.