Summer welcomes many celebrations including birthdays, graduations, and Father’s Day, and Mylar balloons are common decorations used to liven up the party, but the festive decorations are dangerous around power lines. In recognition of National Safety Month, Eversource is reminding customers that Mylar balloons can cause power outages and even pose a significant safety risk.
“It only takes one balloon to create a potential hazard for customers,” said Eversource Vice President of Safety Ken Bogler. “The silver metallic coating on Mylar balloons is a conductor of electricity. If the balloon makes contact with power lines, it can damage electric lines and equipment, and cause power outages. In some cases, it could even cause an electrical surge impacting nearby homes.”
Thousands of Eversource customers experience outages every year because of Mylar balloons. You can prevent an outage and ensure the safety of friends and family at your next outdoor gathering by following these important safety tips: 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. Instead, call Eversource at 1-800-286-2000 to report the problem.—Eversource