JCP&L: Don't Let Balloons Float Up and Take Down Power Lines This Valentine's Day

HOLMDEL - As Valentine's Day approaches, JCP&L, a subsidiary of FirstEnergy Corp., is reminding customers to handle helium-filled foil balloons safely to keep power flowing this season and year-round. Foil balloons cause power outages when released outdoors because their metallic coating conducts electricity and poses a risk to the electric system. 

February typically marks the onset of an increase in outages caused by metallic balloons, as they float off from Valentine's Day gifts. Last year, foil balloons accounted for 22 power outages across JCP&L's service area.

"While our community outreach has helped reduce balloon-related outages from previous years, people of all ages can help keep the lights on in our local communities by understanding the steps to take  to eliminate the dangers posed by foil balloons," said Lisa Rouse, Director of Distribution System Operations at FirstEnergy.

To help ensure holidays and celebrations are enjoyed responsibly, JCP&L encourages its customers to keep these safety tips in mind: 

• Use caution and avoid celebrating with metallic balloons near overhead electric  lines. 
• Securely tie helium-filled metallic balloons to a weight that is heavy enough to  prevent them from floating away. Do not remove the weight until the balloons are  deflated. 
• Puncture and deflate metallic balloons once they are no longer in use. Never release  them into the sky. 
• Never attempt to retrieve any type of balloon, kite or toy that becomes caught in a  power line. Leave it alone and immediately call FirstEnergy at 888-544-4877 to  report the problem. 
• Stay far away from a downed or low-hanging power line. Always assume downed  lines are energized and dangerous. Report them ASAP by calling 911.