If you’re planning to use balloons for outdoor celebrations this summer, it’s important to keep safety in mind, especially when it comes to metal-coated Mylar balloons.

Mylar balloons pose a serious risk to electric systems and are linked to thousands of power outages each year. A simple gust of wind can carry a balloon into overhead power lines, where its metallic coating can conduct electricity and lead to power outages, equipment damage, or even fires.

Recently, one of our linemen found a Mylar balloon tangled in a power line. While it didn’t damage equipment, it did create sparks that started a small grass fire. Fortunately, the situation was contained quickly, but under drier conditions, the outcome could have been much more severe.

Beyond the risk to the electric system, these balloons can also harm animals. Balloons that float away can travel for miles before landing, where animals may ingest them or become entangled in them.

To stay safe, consider alternatives to balloons for your celebrations. If you do use them, always keep them securely tied down and properly dispose of them after use.