For Tri-City area residents planning to include balloons in upcoming birthday parties or other celebrations, be careful how you use them. APS says Mylar balloons became entangled in power lines last weekend, causing power outages in Peoria and Chandler that knocked out electricity to 8,700 homes and businesses.
The metallic coating on these balloons can conduct electricity, potentially causing short circuits, power surges, and even large-scale outages. Those incidents can lead to melted wires, fires, property damage, and injuries to people, pets, and wildlife.
APS officials urge the public to use balloons only indoors and away from power lines. Even non-metallic balloons can get caught in power lines and disrupt service. Metallic balloons should always be secured with a weight or kept tethered.
APS officials also warn never to retrieve balloons or objects caught in power lines. Instead, report the issue to the utility through its outage hotline or website.