Main risks

• Risk of choking and suffocation from uninflated balloons or broken balloon pieces.
• Possible allergic reactions in individuals sensitive to latex.
• Injury from sudden bursting near the face, especially to eyes and ears.
• Fire or burn hazard if exposed to flames, sparks or hot surfaces.
• Strangulation or tripping risk from long ribbons and strings.
• Risk of asphyxiation from inhaling helium or other gases; do not breathe in the contents of the balloon.
• Environmental harm and electrical hazard if released outdoors, especially foil balloons near power lines.
• Hazard to pets that may bite or ingest pieces.

Safe use

• Preferably inflate with a hand pump to reduce the risk of swallowing or inhaling the balloon; avoid over-inflation.
• Keep balloons away from heat, flames, radiators, ovens, hobs, candles and cigarettes.
• Avoid contact with sharp objects, rough surfaces and excessive friction that may cause bursting.
• If using a lifting gas, secure balloons with a weight and tie with ribbons to prevent them escaping.
• Do not inhale helium or other gases from the balloon; use balloons in well-ventilated spaces.
• Arrange ribbons so they do not obstruct walkways or hang at children's neck height.
• Outdoors, do not release balloons and keep them away from power lines and trees.
• Supervise children's inflation and play; remove broken balloon pieces immediately.

Storage and maintenance

• Store uninflated balloons in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight, heat and humidity.
• Keep packs sealed and out of reach of children and pets.
• Do not leave inflated balloons near heat sources, ceiling fans or items that may entangle them.
• Check periodically: discard balloons that are sticky, discoloured, cracked or losing elasticity.
• Wipe the surface with a soft, dry cloth; avoid chemicals or solvents.
• For disposal, fully deflate and place the waste in the appropriate bin; do not release them outdoors.
• During transport, protect inflated balloons from extreme temperatures (e.g. the interior of sun-heated vehicles) and secure them with a weight.

Restrictions of use

• Not suitable for children under 8 years without adult supervision.
• Do not allow children to inflate balloons unsupervised or to put them in their mouths, chew or suck them.
• People with latex allergy should avoid latex balloons and choose suitable alternatives.
• Do not use as a pet toy or leave balloons in cots, beds or children's resting areas.
• Do not use near open flames or in environments where a burst could cause dangerous startle reactions or falls.
• Do not release balloons outdoors or use them near power lines; in the case of foil balloons, always keep them secured with a weight.