FirstEnergy warns of potential electrical hazards of foil balloons as Valentine's Day approaches

Valentine's Day is fast approaching, and some folks might get their valentine a helium-filled foil balloon as part of their gift. However, FirstEnergy is warning folks to handle these balloons with care.
According to a press release, these types of balloons can cause power outages when released outdoors because their metallic coating conducts electricity, which in turn poses a risk to the electrical system.
In 2024 alone, foil balloons were to blame for 109 power outages across FirstEnergy's service area. 18 of those outages were reported by Ohio Edison, one was reported by Penn Power and 12 were reported by West Penn Power.
FirstEnergy is offering the following tips to prevent outages stemming from helium-filled balloons:
- Avoid celebrations with these balloons near electrical lines
- Securely tie the balloons to a weight that is heavy enough to prevent them from floating away and do not remove that weight until all the balloons are deflated.
- Puncture and deflate the balloons once they are no longer in use. Never release them into the sky.
- Never attempt to retrieve a balloon, kite or toy caught on a power line. Call FirstEnergy at 888-544-4877 to report the problem.
- Stay away from downed power lines and always assume they are energized and dangerous. Report any downed power lines you see by calling 911.