Of all the wonderful things that can be done with balloons, few are as exciting or fascinating as releasing helium-filled balloons into the air. Whether you’ve lost a single balloon at the county fair or released hundreds in memory of a loved one or you’re watching a flying octopus float over a lake. Seeing a colorful globe of latex float higher and higher until it’s out of sight captivates young and old.
But balloon releases bring up a lot of questions. Where do the balloons go? Are the balloons dangerous to wildlife and the environment? Do balloons cause more litter?
The Balloon Council
As an industry, balloon professionals are represented by The Balloon Council (www.theballooncouncil.org). “The Balloon Council (TBC), an organization of retailers, distributors and manufacturers, was formed in 1990 to educate consumers and regulators about the wonders of foil and latex balloons and the proper handling of them.”
The Balloon Council closely monitors regulations and laws concerning the balloon industry. This includes the release of helium-filled balloons. TBC offers “best practices” and industry guidelines for common sense use of balloons.
According to TBC guidelines, helium-filled foil (previously known as “Mylar”) balloons should never be released outdoors. There is the potential danger of entanglement in power lines resulting in electrical outages. Additionally, foil balloons are not biodegradable and can cause long-lasting litter.
When using helium-filled foil balloons, always keep them secured to an appropriate weight. Be sure to individually tie each balloon to the weight, so if they become detached from the weight, they will be individual rather than “clustered” (tied together) balloons.
Releasing helium-filled latex balloons is an alternative. Latex balloons are non-conductive to power lines and are biodegradable. Once they return to the ground, (what goes up must come down), they will degrade at the same rate as an oak leaf. However, latex trash can be unsightly and it is considered littering. Also, animals that ingest balloons are at risk of internal injuries and death.
If a latex balloon release is needed, don’t tie the balloons to ribbon. The ribbon can get caught on trees and not only ruin the event but be quite ugly for a long time.
Some communities have regulations against balloon releases. Check with your local and state governments to understand the laws governing your area.
So if foil balloons can’t be released and latex balloons shouldn’t be released, what’s the alternative?
How about releasing a giant helium-filled octopus that can be piloted?
Balloon Octopus
In July 2003, artist Larry Moss, (www.airigami.com), gathered balloon artists from around the country to sculpt an orange octopus using over 7,000 balloons. The project took more than 700 person-hours to complete. The octopus was filled with 10,000 cubic feet of helium and piloted by John Ninomiya, (www.clusterballoon.org).
The octopus flew over Sodus Point, NY to the joy of thousands of spectators. Project pictures and a video are available on the website:
http://www.airigami.com/large-scale-projects/the-fantastic-flying-octopus/
Bottom line, balloons are beautiful and fun. There’s no need to let them go. Keep them around as long as possible. When you need more, just call your local balloon artist. They always have some on hand.
Thad James
SAMMY J Balloon Creations
www.sammyjballoons.com
“Turning fun and creativity into unique customer experiences”