Spring is a popular time of year for families and friends to gather and celebrate special occasions such as graduations and other milestones. To help keep celebrations safe, Ameren is urging customers to be cautious when using Mylar balloons.Mylar balloons, while festive, can cause power outages and safety issues when they come into contact with electric power lines or equipment. These metallic balloons conduct electricity, leading to surges and shorts that can disrupt power, start fires and damage the electric grid.Last year alone, there were hundreds of balloon-related outages nationwide. Ameren has responded to more than 170 balloon-related outages since 2021, with an average duration of 111 minutes, impacting more than 14,000 customers.“We’re not trying to be the balloon police,” said Senior Vice President of Operations and Techinal Services Patrick Smith. “We understand that this is a time for celebrating graduations, weddings, birt...