(IID Request)....Keep Mylar Balloons away from power lines.

The heart shaped balloons and others like them are in high demand on Valentine's Day. The Imperial Irrigation District is asking the public to keep the balloons away from power lines. The metal coating on the balloons can conduct electricity, leading to large scale power outages, melting of electrical wires, fires and property damage if contact is made with energized electrical equipment. IID Board President James Hanks says enjoy your celebration, but be cautious. Keep the Mylar balloons tied down or secured by a weight so they don't get airborne. Last year the metallic balloons caused 55 power outages in the IID service area. The IID suggests you never release the balloons outdoors, use balloon weights or safely tie them down, always deflate metallic balloons and dispose of them properly when no longer in use.