February 14, 2025 • Business News
Prevent Power Outages: Dispose of Mylar Balloons Properly
EL PASO, Texas (February 14, 2025) – El Paso Electric (EPE) is urging customers to properly dispose of Mylar balloons to prevent power outages and electrical hazards. While helium-filled balloons are a popular addition to celebrations, it is not the helium that poses a risk—it's the metallic Mylar material that can cause serious power disruptions if balloons become entangled in electrical lines.
Unlike latex balloons, Mylar balloons have a metallic coating that conducts electricity. If they drift into power lines or electrical equipment, they can cause power outages, which impact homes, businesses and essential services. Improper disposal also contributes to environmental concerns, as Mylar balloons do not biodegrade.
How to Safely Use and Dispose of Mylar Balloons
To help reduce the risk of power outages and ensure a safe celebration, EPE encourages the following responsible practices:
- Never release Mylar balloons outdoors – Even a single balloon can drift into power lines and cause outages.
- Secure helium-filled balloons with a weight – Always attach balloons to a weight to prevent them from floating away.
- Deflate and discard properly – Cut open used balloons to release any air or helium, then dispose of them in the trash.
- Avoid using metallic ribbons – Mylar-coated ribbons can also conduct electricity and create additional hazards.
- Report balloons in power lines – If you see a balloon caught in power lines, do not attempt to retrieve it. Call EPE at 1-800-592-1634 to report the issue.
By taking these simple steps, customers can help prevent unnecessary power outages and ensure a safe and enjoyable celebration for everyone.
For more information on electrical safety, visit epelectric.com.
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