Traditional in some June celebrations, the practice of releasing balloons goes beyond a cultural custom and can pose serious risks to the population and the environment. In addition to the danger of fires in urban areas, vegetation and electrical networks, the activity is also considered a crime under Brazilian legislation.

According to Maria Claudia Trajano, coordinator of the Law course at Faculdade Anhanguera, manufacturing, selling, transporting or releasing balloons are illegal practices in the country. “Brazilian legislation expressly prohibits the release of balloons due to the risks they pose to public safety and the environment. Even when it occurs without the intention of causing harm, the practice can generate criminal liability”, he explains.

The prohibition is provided for in the Environmental Crimes Law (Law nº 9,605/98), which establishes punishments for those who put balloons in the air.

Fire risk worries authorities

During the June festival period, dry weather and winds increase the risk of fires caused by balloons. When they fall in forested areas, residencesindustries or electrical networks, they can cause major accidents.

Furthermore, airports and areas close to air routes also require attention, as balloons can compromise aviation safety.

Punishment for those who release a balloon

According to the coordinator, the legislation provides for imprisonment of one to three years, a fine or both penalties for anyone who manufactures, sells, transports or releases balloons that could cause fires. “Accountability does not necessarily depend on whether the fire to happen. The simple act of releasing balloons is already considered an infraction under environmental legislation”, he highlights.

Tradition does not eliminate risks

Despite the cultural association with June festivals, Maria Claudia Trajano reinforces that the practice represents a collective danger and requires public awareness. “There is often the idea that it is just a traditional game, but the impacts can be extremely serious, putting lives, property and environmental areas at risk,” he says.

The guideline is to opt for safe ways of celebration and report illegal activities related to the release of balloons to the competent authorities. “The preservation of collective safety must be above any practice that could cause accidents or environmental damage”, concludes the coordinator.

By Priscila Dezidério