PG&E’s Graduation Season Warning: A Wake-Up Call for Balloon Safety

PG&E Corp has finally taken a stand against the growing menace of helium-filled metallic balloons, a threat that has left thousands in the dark. The company’s recent warning to customers is a long-overdue acknowledgment of the public safety risks associated with these seemingly harmless party decorations.

In the first five months of 2025 alone, over 130 power outages were caused by metallic balloons, affecting more than 54,000 customers. This is a staggering number, and one that highlights the urgent need for greater awareness and responsibility when it comes to balloon safety.

  • The risks are real: metallic balloons can cause power outages, damage equipment, and even lead to fires.
  • The consequences are severe: power outages can be costly, inconvenient, and even life-threatening.
  • The solution is simple: secure balloons with weights to prevent them from rising into power lines.

PG&E’s warning is a timely reminder that graduation season is not just a time for celebration, but also a time for caution. As the company urges customers to take steps to prevent balloon-related power outages, it’s clear that this is a problem that requires immediate attention.

A New Voice on the Board

In a separate move, PG&E has elected John O. Larsen to its Boards of Directors, bringing decades of experience in utility operations and customer engagement. This is a welcome development, as Larsen’s expertise will undoubtedly help inform the company’s decision-making process and drive positive change.

A Dividend Declaration

In other news, PG&E has declared a quarterly dividend, setting the stage for stock dividend payments. While this may be seen as a positive development for shareholders, it’s worth noting that the company still has a long way to go in terms of rebuilding trust with its customers.

As PG&E continues to navigate the complex landscape of utility operations, customer engagement, and public safety, one thing is clear: the company must prioritize transparency, accountability, and a commitment to the well-being of its customers. Anything less would be a dereliction of duty.