Up, up and away

Have fun, be safe at balloon fiesta                                 

October in New Mexico means it’s time for the exciting Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta. This year more than 700 balloons are scheduled to launch from Balloon Fiesta Park, to the delight of thousands of spectators. Here are some tips to make your balloon fiesta experience more fun:

• Arrive early, preferably about 5:30 for weekend morning events and 4 p.m. for evening events. Otherwise, you may find yourself still in traffic as balloons begin to launch.

• Avoid carrying large handbags. Carry only what is necessary.

• It's usually cool in the morning, but after the sun comes up it will warm up noticeably. Bring a jacket, hat and possibly even gloves, and dress in layers. Also remember to wear comfortable walking shoes.

• Bring appropriate eye protection and sunscreen. Sun and wind could be your enemies on a bright, sunny or windy day.

• Don't smoke on the field. Balloons carry tanks of flammable propane gas. Also, an ash can burn a hole in a balloon’s envelope.

• Don’t step on balloons or handle them.

• Pay attention to the launch directors, also known as zebras for their black-and-white striped wear, and be aware of launching balloons. More than 700 balloons launch in about two hours so action is fast and furious for a while. You can be hurt by a moving balloon.

• Beware of vehicles moving around the field, especially emergency vehicles needing to get through the crowd. In the early morning, vehicles carrying balloons and their crews will arrive on the field. After balloons launch, the vehicles filled with chase crews leave the field to follow their balloons.

• Decide where to meet your group or family in case someone gets separated or lost and make sure your children have identification on them.

• Don't try to drive and watch balloons at the same time. Pull off to the side of the road in a safe place. Be careful. Pulling over is not allowed in many locations around the balloon field.

For more on the Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta, visit their web site.
 
Up, Up And Away

October in New Mexico means
 it's time for the exciting
Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta
 Here are some tips to make it a fun and safe event for all.
October 4-12 2008

 

Web Producer