When Is Control Needed?

From the Other Mike S I learn that California is considering a ban on metallic balloons.

The reason for the metallic balloon ban is the problem when mylar balloons are set free and collide with power lines. The article Mike linked says this:

... helium-filled foil balloons ... float into electric lines and cause power outages, more than 800 in California last year, utilities say.

To cause a power outage, a metallic foil balloon must come in contact with two power lines at once. Typically, the balloon then burns and melts onto the power line. That usually causes a quick, inconsequential blip that might cause a clock radio to flash, though blackouts lasting for hours are also possible, according to Greg Simay, assistant general manager at Burbank Water & Power. Removing the balloons is potentially dangerous for the workers involved.

So, in California, 800 metallic balloons contacted two power lines at once and caused 800 power outages in 2008. These power outages lasted long enough to reset clock radios. Another article mentions 35 such outage in Chicago in 2008 affecting 19,855 customers.

I'm not really sure of the point of Mike's blog entry, but it's clear that he doesn't approve of this new legislation and considers this another case of California being a "Nanny State."

At what point does a continuing irritant that affects customers from anywhere from one second to two hours need to be controlled?

The balloons, obviously, are an unnecessary luxury. Electricity in this society is no longer a luxury and is required for the running of nearly every business and is important for most homes. From that perspective alone, one could say that the benefit of the ballons does not warrant the risk and possible cost of a power outage.

But is that overkill? Maybe.

Only a small percentage of balloons cause problems. But that's the case for everything. Only a small percentage of car trips result in an accident but wearing seatbelts have reduced fatality rates (or so I've heard).
Only a small percentage of Americans are ever mugged or attacked and yet the NRA claims we need guns for protection. Only a small number of people have been electrocuted in the bathroom and yet GFCI outlets are required. Most people don't create idols but it's listed as one of the ten commandments.

For the metallic balloon problem, I think the solution is to require a $25 or so deposit on each metallic balloon. The deposit will ensure that the balloon owners take care to keep the balloon under control.