Only use Biodegradable Balloons without any added weight and launch singularly

The balloons we post out to organisers are made of a natural latex rubber and are less than 12'' in diameter. They biodegrade in about the same time as an oak leaf. We post up to a maximum of 200 of these balloons to organisers for free; along with sharpie style pens to enable people to write their messages directly on the balloons. We ask organisers to ensure that no ribbons, string, card or added weight are added to the balloons. Instead, we ask organisers to encourage people to write their messages directly on the balloons. 90% of helium filled latex balloons without added weight, rise to high altitudes, where they then break into tiny pieces and fall harmlessly back to earth. There has never been a study which shows latex balloons kill wildlife. Latex products promote conservation of tropical rainforests and expansion of forestation. Balloons should always be released individually. Single balloons quickly disperse and rise easily. They should never be tied together in bunches on being released.

Only inflate the balloons with Helium gas

Helium gas is lighter than air and helps aid balloon decomposition by allowing the balloon to reach high altitudes. Helium is an inert gas, this means that it is colourless, odourless, non-toxic and non-flammable. Organisers should always read and follow the instructions on the canister they purchase, always storing, transporting, and handling Helium gas with care. Organisers should never inhale or allow anyone to inhale the gas as it will cause asphyxiation, unconsciousness and death due to lack of oxygen.

Safety Warnings, Legal Obligations & Disclaimer

There is a legal obligation to print a safety warning on balloon packaging. The responsibility lies with the person who last opened  or re-packaged the balloons. Thin Blue Line UK will not be held responsible for any accident of injury following the misuse of balloons.

It is important that organisers realise that...

• Children should always be supervised around balloons.
• Balloons or pieces of balloon should never be put in or near the mouth. It is possible to choke or be suffocated by an un-inflated balloon or pieces of burst balloon.
• Inhaling Helium gas is dangerous and should never been inhaled. It can lead to dizziness, nausea, vomiting loss of consciousness, asphyxiation, and death.
• Persons over the age of 18 should always be the ones who inflate balloons. A hand pump (or similar) should be used to inflate balloons.
• Broken balloons should always be disposed of safely
• When handled responsibly balloons pose no threat to health, wildlife or the environment 

Thin Blue Line UK only support individual memorial releases of up to 200 individual balloons. All responsibility for ensuring balloon releases are conducted safely and ensuring that sufficient insurance (if applicable) is in place remains the responsibility of the event organisers and/or person arranging the balloon release event.

It is important that organisers realise that...

• It is a requirement that if more than 5,000 balloons are being released that organisers must apply in writing for permission to the Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) at least 28 days in advance of the release.
• The CAA must also be informed of any balloon releases up to 5,000 balloons if the release is in the vicinity of an airport or airfield. A form can be obtained by calling the Airspace Utilisation Section of the CAA on 020 7453 6599. 
• Organisers must consider whether they may need Public Liability Insurance for their memorial balloon release and make appropriate enquiries prior to the event.