Balloons are the leading cause of suffocation death among children’s toys.
6-year-old Illinois boy dies of balloon-related suffocation, officials say
June 6, 2025
An autopsy conducted the next day in Springfield found the cause of death to be suffocation due to a Mylar-helium filled balloon. Coroner Keepes wishes to raise risks associated with large child size Mylar balloons. While often seen as harmless decorations, these balloons can pose serious risks — particularly to young children — including the rare but devastating possibility of suffocation and/or helium toxicity.
Tennesse girl, 7, killed by her own birthday balloons: mom in warning to parents
October 9, 2023
Little Alexandra Hope Kelly was popping her balloons at her home in Clinton on Oct. 1 when she was suffocated by the large number “7” balloon her family had purchased for her birthday party days earlier. It’s unclear if Alexandra died as a result of suffocation or helium poisoning. A medical examiner is conducting an autopsy.
Helium Inhalation
Inhaling Helium can be deadly. Huffing helium, whether from a balloon or straight from a tank, depletes your body of oxygen. Results can be from slight dizziness to death.
Facebook: Helium Awareness
Warning issued after mom dies from inhaling helium at daughter’s birthday party: ‘Went blue instantly’
January 31, 2025
The party had been inhaling helium from the balloons to make their voices high when someone suggested doing it directly from the helium canister.
Bluffton Mother Sues Balloon Company After 6-Year-Old’s Tragic Death
Japan pop star in coma after inhaling helium for TV stunt
Latex Allergies
Avoiding latex products may decrease the chance of your child developing this allergy.
The Bursting Reality of Latex Allergies
Latex products are a public health hazard when in unknowing places
There is no cure for latex allergy. People with severe reactions must simply avoid latex.
Woman almost dies after unexpected balloon drop at concert
It’s Just “Balloon-acy”!: The Hidden Dangers of Latex Allergy
Balloons, the most deadly toy
Why are Latex Balloons a Danger to Children? Girl, 5, chokes to death on burst balloon despite frantic efforts of her mother (April 2012)
Mum’s tragic warning after baby chokes to death on Balloon (April 2021)
Mother Warns Parents After 9-Month-Old Chokes To Death On Balloon (June 2018)
Parents speak out after accident with birthday balloon claims 8-year-old (March 2016)