ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. (KRQE) – With Balloon Fiesta quickly approaching, the Public Service Company of New Mexico (PNM) gathered first responders and Balloon Fiesta safety officials to discuss what to do in case of a balloon crash. The safety demonstration emphasized preparedness and emergency response tactics surrounding power lines and ballooning.
“Safety is a priority at PNM, and it’s important to know that touching a balloon caught in power lines could cause a chain reaction that can injure those attempting to provide help, as well as the people inside the balloon’s gondola. While it can be our natural instinct to want to run in and help others, there is no way for a casual observer to know if a power line is carrying electricity or has been de-energized by the balloon accident. It’s always best to stay back and call PNM,” said PNM’s press release.
Although PNM stations employees both at the field and at the PNM Distribution Operations Center during fiesta, safety is in the hands of attendees and pilots as well. PNM recommends keeping the following safety tips in mind this fiesta:
If you see a balloon get entangled in powerlines, do not approach. Call 911 immediately, and call PNM at 888-DIAL-PNM. The safest thing to do for everyone is to stay away and call for help.
Touching a balloon wrapped in power lines could cause a chain reaction that can injure those trying to help, and anyone inside the balloon’s gondola. Even if the line is not sparking or arcing, always assume that it’s energized and call 888-DIAL-PNM.
Electricity seeks the nearest path to ground, which means an energized power line that poses no danger to a balloon hanging on one wire could become deadly if someone touches the ground and the balloon or tether at the same time. Stay away, call 911 and 888-DIAL-PNM.
Keep your eyes on the road when driving. Every year outages affecting thousands of customers are caused by vehicles hitting power poles or other electrical equipment. As balloons fill the sky, stay safe and keep your eyes on the road. Pull over in a safe location to watch & take pictures of the balloons.
