Balloon Explosions: Why Hydrogen Balloons Are Dangerous & How To Stay Safe

• Two incidents in a week, in Mumbai and Ujjain, highlight the dangers of decorative balloons.
• Balloons likely filled with highly combustible hydrogen, not inert helium, due to lower cost.
• Hydrogen ignites easily from static, friction, or tiny sparks, causing sudden fireballs.
• Lifts are especially dangerous due to enclosed space, electrical components, and lack of ventilation.
• Safety tips: avoid balloons in lifts, assume hydrogen-filled, keep away from sparks, and use certified helium for events.