NV Energy urges not to launch mylar balloons during New Year's revelry
Early New Year's morning in Carson City circa 1999-2000, a mylar balloon was launched shortly after midnight, knocking out power to thousands of electricity customers around town. The power outage was confusing to many as the nation and world were, at the time, concerned about Y2K issues. The incident generated plenty of conversation around the water cooler during the days that followed.
Mylar balloons have caused thousands of power outages over the years and with Tuesday being New Year’s Eve, NV Energy would like to remind customers to keep Mylar balloons secure during New Year’s celebrations.
Mylar balloons are helium-filled balloons that are coated with a metallic finish. If they come in contact with power lines, they can cause equipment to fail resulting in a power outage.
NV Energy recommends the following Mylar balloon safety tips:
— Customers are encouraged to tether Mylar balloons.
— When disposing of the balloons, puncture them to release the helium. This will prevent the balloons from coming into contact with power lines and causing a power outage.
— Do not try to retrieve the balloon from the power line, instead please contact NV Energy at 775-834-4100 to report the problem.