DON’T LET GO!
What happens to balloons after they are released?
BALLOONS CAN KILL WILDLIFE!
- Dolphins, whales, turtles, seabirds and other animals have been killed by balloons.
- If swallowed, balloons can block an animal’s digestive tract and cause starvation.
- Animals can become entangled in balloon ribbons and string, restricting their movement and their ability to feed.
- 10 percent of balloons that are released float back to the earth without bursting.
- You can enjoy balloons without harming wildlife.
- Don’t let go of balloons outdoors.
- Fill balloons with air rather than helium.
- Use balloons made of natural rubber latex rather than mylar (foil) balloons.
- When tying balloons use natural cotton string rather than plastic ribbon.
- Do not use balloons as exterior decorations, particularly in places like Ocean City, where wind and water are always nearby.
* This information provided by the Ocean City Environmental Commission and the Marine Conservation Society
