As graduation ceremonies, parties and outdoor celebrations ramp up, San Diego Gas & Electric (SDG&E) is reminding customers that metallic balloons released outdoors can pose serious safety risks when they come into contact with power lines.
Metallic balloons are a popular way to mark special occasions, but when released, they can travel long distances and potentially interfere with electrical infrastructure. Each year, these incidents lead to power outages, equipment damage and, in some cases, fires — all of which are preventable.
When balloons contact power lines, entire neighborhoods can lose service in an instant. In 2025, metallic balloons caused more than 50 power outages, affecting more than 85,000 SDG&E customers. So far in 2026, 25 outages have already disrupted service for more than 62,000 customers. A single balloon release can result in hours-long outages affecting homes, businesses and critical services.
Why metallic balloons are a hazard
Unlike latex balloons, metallic balloons are typically coated with a conductive material. When they contact power lines, substations or other electrical equipment, they can:
- Cause electrical faults, outages or equipment damage
- Trigger arc flashes or fires
- Create hazardous conditions for the public and first responders
- Disrupt electric service for homes, businesses and critical facilities
What to do if you see a balloon near power lines
If you see a metallic balloon near power lines:
- Do not attempt to retrieve it
- Stay a safe distance away
- Report it immediately by calling SDG&E at (800) 411‑7343
Only trained utility crews using proper equipment should respond to objects near energized electrical infrastructure.
How the public can help prevent incidents
As celebrations increase, SDG&E encourages customers to take simple steps to reduce risk:
- Keep metallic balloons indoors and properly dispose of them after use
- Always use balloon weights
- Never release metallic balloons outdoors
- Consider non‑balloon alternatives for outdoor celebrations
Safety is a shared responsibility
Preventing balloon‑related incidents helps protect public safety, reduce unexpected hazards for utility workers and first responders and avoid unnecessary service disruptions for customers.
As celebrations increase, small actions can make a meaningful difference. To learn how you can help prevent outages and fire risks, visit sdge.com/safety.
About SDG&E
SDG&E is an innovative energy-delivery company that provides clean, safe and reliable energy to better the lives of the people it serves in San Diego and southern Orange counties. The company is committed to creating a sustainable future by increasing energy delivered from low- or zero-carbon sources; accelerating the adoption of electric vehicles; and investing in innovative technologies to ensure the reliable operation of the region's infrastructure for generations to come. SDG&E is a recognized leader in its industry and community, as demonstrated by being named Corporate Partner of the Year at the San Diego Business Journal’s Nonprofit & Corporate Citizenship Awards and receiving PA Consulting's ReliabilityOne® Award for Outstanding Reliability Performance for 20 consecutive years. SDG&E is a subsidiary of Sempra (NYSE: SRE), a leading U.S. utility growth business. For more information, visit SDGEtoday.com or connect with SDG&E on social media @SDGE.