Abudance Of Parties, PSEG LI Urges Caution Using Balloons

UNIONDALE, NY — While families gather for graduation parties and weddings across the island this month, PSEG Long Island reminds customers to use care with metallic foil balloons and other flying objects.

The utility company says balloons, kites and drones can get entangled in overhead electric equipment causing potential issues, including power outages and fires.

"The safety of customers and employees is PSEG Long Island’s No. 1 priority. We want customers to know the risks and take steps to ensure their recreational activities and celebrations are a success," Michael Sullivan, PSEG Long Island’s vice president of Electric Operations, said.

Among the steps to reduce risks are:

• Don't fly in dark, stormy or windy conditions.
• Stay at least 200 feet away from power lines or other electrical equipment.
• Never cross a road or street while flying a kite or holding a balloon.
• Kites and Mylar balloons should never be purposely released into the air.
• All balloons with helium should be secured to weights that prevent them from floating away.
• 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 so a specially trained crew can safely address the issue.