Escaped helium balloon caused fire in west Mayo

ESCAPED helium balloons pose a hazard where they land on electricity wires.

A recent incident in the Louisburgh area had the potential for a big fire, Councillor Chris Maxwell has highlighted.

There was an electricity power outage after a helium balloon came down on the three phase wire and it exploded, starting a fire under the wires.

Luckily, a man saving turf nearby raised the alarm or there could have been a dangerous wildfire.

Speaking at a municipal district meeting, Councillor Maxwell said he wanted the public to be aware that there is a potential hazard, emphasising that it wasn't anyone's fault, just that the balloon escaped.

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