The Washington City Power Department is advising residents to take precautions with Mylar balloons to prevent power outages and ensure public safety. As graduations and outdoor gatherings occur, officials noted that Mylar balloons pose a specific threat because, unlike latex balloons, they can float for weeks at a time.
Risks of Mylar balloons
These balloons present risks to both the general public and utility workers.
Safety tips for handling balloons
To reduce the risk of electrical issues, the Power Department provided several safety tips for handling Mylar balloons. Residents are encouraged to keep balloons indoors and away from entrances or exits.
Additionally, officials recommend tying down Mylar balloons with weights or securing them to stationary objects. If balloons are no longer needed, they should be punctured, deflated, and disposed of properly.
Procedures for contact with lines
In the event that a Mylar balloon contacts a power line, the Power Department instructs individuals to stay at least 20 feet away from themselves, their equipment, and all other people or items.
Warning against retrieving objects
Residents should always assume that power lines are energized and must not attempt to climb poles or retrieve objects from lines.
