While crews battle power outages from lightning and other natural disasters, one man-made issue that has been affecting power outages is mylar balloons. Communications Executive Brian Bretsch of Ameren says so far this year they have dealt with 19 power outages that have been a direct result of balloons causing those issues.

Bretsch says that they can get into substations and the metallic coating conducts power causes arcs. 

Ameren isn’t saying not to have parties and use balloons, Bretsch just asks that you dispose of them properly.

Bretsch also wanted to give a few other tips when it comes to balloons and safety. 

Again, contact Ameren Illinois at 1-800-755-5000 if you have any issues.