It's getting to be that time of year. Graduation season is just around the corner.
Last year, Hawaiian Electric crews responded to 14 power outages created by metallic balloons caught in power lines.
HECO is trying to warn folks about the possible hazard.
There is probably no better way to get the information out than by telling youngsters - in this case, fourth graders at Hokulani Elementary.
So Andy Villanueva used a small electrical demonstration to let kids know the hazards involved when a metallic balloon touches the power lines.
"We do encourage that you add a weight to the metallic balloon - something like a stuffed animal or a bag of candy, something that will keep it secured," said Kathy Freitas with HECO.
Andy demonstrated other potential dangers when it comes to power lines - such as when a tree is blown by the wind into the line.
The kids are quick learners.
"We know that electricity is very dangerous and can shock you and it can almost stop your heart beat," said Hokulani fourth grader Phoebe McNally.
"Today's presentation is going to show all aspects of electrical safety - how to keep our customers, our kids, our families safe around our power lines and our equipment," said Freitas.
Some of the lessons are more visual than others.
"I liked the part where the doll touched the truck and it went through the doll body," said Hokulani fourth grader Diana Gao.
"You're walking down the street, you see an accident right? You see that truck and the power line falls on the truck. And you're walking. Don't touch the truck because it's energized. This is what would happen," said Villanueva.
And what Andy calls the big finish - how a hot dog sizzles when it touches the power line. He had their attention with this one.
