PG&E Warns Graduates About the Dangers of Floating Metallic Balloons

Safety First: PG&E's Graduation Balloon Guidance

As graduation season approaches, celebrations filled with joy and festivities are prominent in communities. Amidst this, Pacific Gas and Electric Company (PG&E) sends a crucial reminder to graduates and their families: while it's tempting to release helium-filled metallic balloons into the sky, it's necessary to consider the potential hazards they pose.

In the bustling months of early 2025, PG&E reported over 130 power outages caused by metallic balloons making contact with electric lines. This unfortunate series of events disrupted services for more than 54,000 residents in the service area alone. Such outages can critically impact essential facilities including hospitals, schools, and traffic signals, highlighting the need for safety awareness during this celebratory time.

PG&E’s Vice President of Electric Distribution, Ron Richardson, stated, "It may look fun and festive to release balloons in the air during graduation ceremonies, but when helium-filled metallic balloons come into contact with overhead lines, they can cause a widespread power outage." To ensure a joyous and safe celebration, PG&E encourages graduates to secure their metallic balloons with weights.

The Risk of Metallic Balloons

Metallic balloons have a reflective surface that acts as a conductor of electricity. If they escape their confinement and contact overhead power lines, it can lead to severe consequences like shorting out transformers and melting electrical wires. A notable incident years ago during a homecoming parade in the North Coast illustrated this danger when a group of floating metallic balloons snagged on a power line, causing widespread outages and leading to the cancellation of the homecoming dance event.

To visualize the risks involved, PG&E shares an illustrative example of how metallic balloons can wreak havoc on utility power lines. Here's what can happen.

Key Safety Tips for Graduation Celebrations

To promote a safer environment during graduation celebrations involving balloons, PG&E advises everyone to follow these essential safety tips:

1. "Look Up and Live!": Always maintain caution with metallic balloons near overhead electric lines.
2. Secure Balloons: Ensure that helium-filled metallic balloons are firmly tied to a weight heavy enough to keep them grounded. Removing this weight can lead to unforeseen consequences.
3. Indoor Celebrations: Where possible, keep metallic balloons indoors. For collective safety, refrain from allowing metallic balloons to be released into the outdoors.
4. Avoid Bundling: Resist the urge to bundle multiple metallic balloons together, as this increases the risk of them floating away.
5. Balloon Retrieval: Never attempt to retrieve any object stuck in power lines, including balloons or kites. It is essential to leave it alone and report the situation immediately to PG&E at 1-800-743-5000.
6. Downed Power Lines: Always assume that fallen or hanging power lines are energized and hazardous. Keep a safe distance and alert the appropriate emergency services without delay.

Conclusion

Graduation is a milestone worthy of celebration, and with the right precautions, these moments can be both joyous and safe. By following PG&E’s guidance on balloon safety, graduates and their families can ensure a memorable day without the risk of power outages or safety hazards. Let’s keep the air clear for joy and celebration, not for floating metallic balloons!