Keep the Love Alive and the Power On this Valentine's Day with PG&E's Safety Tips

Valentine's Day and Power Safety: A Love Story

As Valentine's Day approaches, the air fills with romance, excitement, and a flurry of celebrations. Flowers, chocolates, and precious moments shared with loved ones are all part of the day's charm. However, amidst this joyous atmosphere, there's an unexpected villain waiting to spoil the fun: power outages caused by metallic balloons.

A Growing Concern

The Pacific Gas and Electric Company (PG&E) has reported a higher incidence of power outages during Valentine's Day, primarily due to the negligence surrounding metallic balloons. These shiny party staples, often seen gliding gracefully through the air, can pose significant dangers to electrical equipment when mismanaged. In fact, in the previous year alone, nearly 350 outages affected over 165,000 customers in Northern and Central California. Such disruptions can inconvenience homes, businesses, and critical services, including hospitals and traffic signals.

The Risk of Metallic Balloons

Unlike traditional latex balloons, metallic balloons can stay afloat for weeks, making them a persistent threat. When they accidentally float into power lines, they might create dangerous conditions not only for the public but for first responders as well. "A single metallic balloon can turn off the lights for an entire neighborhood in a matter of seconds," warns Ron Richardson, PG&E’s Vice President of Electric Distribution Operations.

Safety Tips When Celebrating

With celebrations on the horizon, PG&E urges customers to enjoy their Valentine's festivities responsibly. Here are some tips to ensure that love doesn’t spark electrical disasters:

1. Secure the Balloons: Always tie metallic balloons to a weight heavy enough to keep them grounded. California law mandates this safety measure.
2. Avoid Outdoor Releases: Never release metallic balloons outdoors. Dispose of them properly by puncturing or cutting the knot and placing them in the trash.
3. Look Up: Be aware of your surroundings. Avoid using metallic balloons near overhead power lines.
4. Report Issues: If you spot a balloon entangled in power lines, refrain from attempting to retrieve it. Instead, call PG&E at 1-800-743-5000 to report the issue.
5. Stay Safe from Downed Lines: Maintain distance from power lines that are downed or sagging. Always treat them as live and extremely dangerous.

Enjoying Valentine's Day Safely

By following these straightforward safety tips, you can keep your Valentine's celebration filled with love rather than darkness. It’s a simple, yet effective way to honor the day while ensuring the safety of your community. Celebrate wisely, and let's keep the lights shining bright this February 14th!

For more information on power safety or to learn about PG&E services, visit pg&e.com.

Remember: A little precaution goes a long way. Enjoy your Valentine's Day, and may love be the only thing that flows this holiday!