Balloons & Kites

Balloons and Kites Can Be Screamingly DangerousWhen a metallic balloon or kite touches a power line or floats into substation equipment, it can cause a surge of electricity that short circuits equipment and can lead to power outages, fires, and possible injuries.

Safety Tips

  • Keep metallic balloons indoors; never release them outside.
  • Make sure balloons are secured at all times to a weight that is heavy enough to prevent them from floating away.
  • Metallic balloons and kites should always be kept away from overhead power lines and all utility equipment.
  • Never try to remove anything caught in power lines or in electric substations.
  • If a kite or balloon gets caught in a power line, call Alameda Municipal Power immediately at 510-748-3900 to report the problem.