Metallic Balloons Could Cause Power Outages

EUREKA, Ca. (KIEM) –  Valentine’s day is tomorrow and that gift from your significant other could cause electrical problems.

Metallic balloons have a silvery coating, which is a conductor for electricity and if the balloons float away and come in contact with power lines, they can short transformers, melt electric wires and cause power outages. Last year, balloons striking lines caused four power outages in Humboldt County. PG&E reminds residents not to have metallic balloons near power lines and to have them fully secured.