SINGAPORE - Are the LED balloon maracas in the National Day funpacks safe for use, or will they explode and cause injury?
A WhatsApp message has been making the rounds, warning Singaporeans about the balloon maracas, a musical instrument that contains beads and makes rattling noises, saying that these could explode and cause injuries to the eyes or face.
But National Day Parade organisers have deflated such claims and said that the balloon LED maracas are safe for use.
In a Facebook post uploaded on Thursday at 9.15pm, the National Day Parade (NDP) Executive Committee said it was aware of the messages and added: "The manufacturer assures (us) that the balloon maracas have gone through careful testing for quality control and is safe for use.
"Notwithstanding, we urge users to use the LED balloon maracas in accordance to the instructions on the packaging and avoid overinflating the balloon."
Some Singaporeans had received WhatsApp messages from Thursday morning, saying that the LED balloon can explode and send small pellets flying.
"If it explodes, pellets flying out of the balloon can cause serious injuries to the eyes or face. Pls let your friends with small kids know of this danger," said the WhatsApp message. It is unclear where the message originated from or if anyone has been hurt.
A video showing how to dismantle the LED balloon maracas accompanied the Facebook post by the NDP Executive Committee. In the video, a man explains that the maracas sound is made by "silver beads" inside the balloon.
"Though (the balloon) is easily inflated, it will not burst unless inflated excessively," said the demonstrator, as he goes on to show what the maracas should look like when inflated.
