The reality series, The First 48, follows murder investigations in various locations around the country.  Often, the show will conclude showing the loved ones of the victim at a memorial service that concludes with a balloon launch.

Balloon launches create non-biodegradable litter, and are harmful to our wildlife as well as the environment.  Birds, turtles and marine life such as dolphins, turtles and fish will often mistake balloons for food, and if ingested, they cause serious injury or even death.  They can also be ingested by grazing animals like cows and horses, causing great harm or death to them as well.  Animals can become entangled in the balloon strings, preventing their ability to fly, walk, escape from predators or even to open their mouths, causing them to slowly starve to death.

Showing balloon launches on your show promotes the practice and, in turn, others pick up on the idea,  then even more harm is done to the environment and our wildlife.

We are imploring you to stop promoting balloon releases on your show!!!  If family and loved ones insist on one, you should encourage other, environmentally friendly options, such as a candle lighting/vigil, blowing bubbles, planting a tree, flying kites.  There are a number of eco-friendly ideas available on the internet.