Balloon Ban: Protecting Power Grids from Mylar Menace in Las Vegas
Colaboradores
Las Vegas is cracking down on balloon releases to protect its power grid. Leaders in the Las Vegas Valley are urging residents and visitors to secure their balloons, especially metallic (mylar) balloons, to prevent power outages. This push comes ahead of a new state law set to take effect on October 1st, which will ban the intentional outdoor release of helium-filled balloons.
The Mylar Balloon Problem
NV Energy reports that mylar balloons are a significant cause of power outages. Just recently, a mylar balloon caused an outage affecting 751 customers in Henderson. Utility officials stated that, over the past five years, hundreds of outages have been attributed to mylar balloons. Regular balloons also contribute to damage and require crew intervention.
According to Michael Sullivan, PSEG Long Island’s vice president of Electric Operations: 'While we all want to make our celebrations as fun and memorable as possible, a drone, kite or metallic foil balloon coming into contact with a power line or other electrical equipment could lead to power outages, fire and, possibly, injuries'
New Law & Penalties
The new law prohibits the intentional release of helium-filled balloons outdoors. Violators will face a $250 fine. Exceptions are made for indoor balloon releases, weather balloons, and releases for research purposes.
City Initiatives and Public Awareness
Las Vegas Councilwoman Nancy Brune has been a key advocate for this initiative, spearheading the city's first ordinance banning outdoor releases and lobbying for the statewide legislation. She emphasizes the importance of protecting workers, small businesses, business continuity, and wildlife. 'We're helping workers with this bill. We're protecting small businesses and the business continuity, and we're protecting our wildlife,' Brune said.
The city is launching a public awareness campaign in both English and Spanish to educate the public about the dangers of balloon releases. The focus is on preventing intentional releases during planned events, rather than penalizing children who accidentally release a balloon.
Safety Guidelines from PSEG Long Island
- Stay at least 200 feet away from power lines or other electrical equipment.
- NEVER touch a power line.
- Do not attempt to retrieve a balloon, kite, drone or anything caught in an overhead power line.
- Report it by contacting PSEG Long Island at 800-490-0075.
- All balloons with helium should be secured to weights that prevent them from floating away.
- To properly dispose of a Mylar balloon, safely puncture it in several places to release the helium, and discard it.
By raising awareness and implementing these measures, Las Vegas aims to minimize power outages and ensure a safer summer for its residents and businesses.