Industry Group Offers Tips on Smart Balloon Use

With summer celebrations imminent, national trade group encourages smart use
of America's favorite party favor

WASHINGTON, June 1 /PRNewswire/ -- The grill is fired up, the sun is shining,
and Americans are ready to kick off the summer season with backyard barbeques,
graduation parties and other celebrations. If you are enhancing your
festivities with balloons, be sure to follow these tips to keep everyone safe
and our environment healthy:

-- Keep balloons secured to a weight. A helium filled balloon should be
tied securely to a weight that will keep it from releasing into the
air.

-- Do not release metallic (foil) balloons into the air. After the party
is over, many people will want to take the balloons home, but when
you're finished with them, pop the balloons and dispose of them
properly. Do not release them into the air, as they can cause
problems
if they are tangled in power lines and can turn into roadside litter
if
not disposed of properly.

-- Keep deflated or popped latex balloons away from small children to
avoid
risks of choking. Children under 8 years can choke or suffocate on
uninflated or broken balloons; adults should always supervise young
children with balloons.

-- Latex balloons are made of natural rubber latex and are biodegradable,
but may cause allergic reactions in people who are allergic to natural
rubber latex.

"Everyone loves the sight of a floating balloon, and they add magic to any
party," said Dan Flynn, chairman of the Balloon Council. "But, we can't
forget the care that needs to be taken though when using any product,
including one as joyous as balloons. It is important that consumers use the
product properly."

Balloon use is popular during the summer time, especially for
"Congratulations" wishes for graduates, wedding parties, birthdays and other
festive occasions.

Balloon sales are among the most popular items at small businesses such as
florists, party and card stores, grocery stores and other locations.

The Balloon Council (TBC), an organization of retailers, distributors and
manufacturers, was formed in 1990 to educate consumers and regulators about
the wonders of metallic and latex balloons and the proper handling of them.

SOURCE The Balloon Council

Pete McDonough of The Balloon Council, +1-800-233-8887