Summer Weather Hazards for Advertising Inflatables
Summer brings its own set of challenges when it comes to inflatables. Heat isn't a problem for inflatables, but storms of various sorts can certainly do major damage. The most common threat to your inflatable during the summer months, however, is wind!
During a storm, lightning can stop your inflatable in its tracks in several ways. If the power goes out so will your blower, which means your balloon will deflate. The high winds that often come with storms can tear tether straps or anchor points on your inflatable. Unsecured objects can also hit your inflatable tearing or otherwise damaging the material.
You would do well to monitor weather forecasts several days prior to the scheduled use of your inflatable and, of course, pick the most optimal days possible. However, if you notice dark clouds beginning to form in the distance, go ahead and deflate your balloon prior to the storm developing.
It's best to not only deflate cold-air inflatables but also to roll up the balloon and secure it. Once the storm has passed, it is advisable to re-inflate and allow the balloon to completely dry before packing it away. NEVER LEAVE A WET INFLATABLE PACKED UP – IT WILL MOLD AND ROT.
We never recommend deflating DURING a storm.
Once high winds are in progress, deflation (or inflation for that matter) is very dangerous. The inflatable could easily get away from you or literally take flight with you in tow resulting in serious injury. The cost of an inflatable is a small price to pay to ensure your safety and the safety of others. If a storm is in progress, leave your inflatable and seek shelter for yourself.
As mentioned earlier, heat isn’t a problem for inflatables. Heat can cause problems, however, with the environment surrounding your inflatable. Take caution when inflating your balloon on hot asphalt (or asphalt rooftops). These surfaces can often have spots of melted tar that can possibly stain, stick to, tear, melt and otherwise harm your inflatable. It’s important to protect the inflatable by setting it on a tarp for inflation, usage, and deflation. This will prevent the tar from sticking to the inflatable.
If you pay attention to your surroundings and the weather, and take a few precautionary steps toward keeping your inflatable protected, you should have a safe and profitable summer season.
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