Itagüí, colombia, December 31, 2024 – Residents of Itagüí and the surrounding Aburrá Valley awoke to startling explosions early Monday as several balloons loaded with gunpowder were launched into the air, sparking alarm and prompting emergency responses.The practice,known locally as the “globera tradition,” continues despite repeated warnings about the dangers it poses.
Risky ‘Globera Tradition’ Sparks Fires and Concerns
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The annual practice of launching gunpowder-filled balloons is causing property damage and raising safety concerns in Colombia.
- Gunpowder balloons caused at least two fires in Itagüí on New Year’s Eve and New Year’s Day.
- One fire damaged the roof of a home, while another consumed machinery, a computer, and a dishwasher.
- Authorities are urging residents to avoid using these risky devices due to the risk to life and property.
The Itagüí Volunteer Fire Department responded to at least two emergencies on December 31, 2024, and in the early morning hours of January 1, 2025, both caused by these fuse balloons. The incidents highlight the ongoing risks associated with this long-held custom.
What makes these balloons so dangerous? These devices, filled with gunpowder, are ignited mid-flight, creating a series of loud explosions as they ascend and eventually fall back to earth. The falling debris poses a significant fire hazard, particularly to homes and other structures.
Fires Damage Homes in Las Asturias and Camparola
The first fire occurred at a home on Calle 48A and Carrera 48, in the Las Asturias neighborhood. Fortunately, fast-thinking neighbors helped firefighters control the blaze after a balloon impacted the roof, preventing any injuries.
A more complex situation unfolded in the Camparola neighborhood, on Diagonal 46 and 34th Street. Flames engulfed several items inside a home, including machinery, a computer, and a stainless steel dishwasher. The homeowners were away from the city at the time of the incident, adding to the challenges faced by emergency responders.
Antioquia province, where Itagüí is located, has seen a concerning number of gunpowder-related injuries this year, with 140 people burned as of late December, including a child under 15 years old.
Following these incidents, local authorities reiterated their calls for residents to refrain from using fuse balloons and gunpowder-loaded balloons. The high risk these devices present to homes, property, and, moast importantly, people’s lives cannot be overstated.
Videos circulating on social media show the balloons bursting mid-air, vividly illustrating the potential for harm.The “globera tradition” is particularly prev
alent in areas with large gatherings,exacerbating the danger.
Who is involved? the primary actors are residents who continue the tradition, the itagüí Volunteer Fire Department responding to incidents, and local authorities issuing
