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Balloon Assembly
At your arrival on the launch site, inspect and clear the area of sharp objects, loose debris, and “natural organic by-products”.
The pilot will direct the assembly of the balloon system. You may be asked to help pull the basket and envelope bag out of the trailer. Be advised that each of these can weigh between 200 to 500 pounds, so get some help from other crewmembers. Lift with your legs, not your back!
Place the envelope bag approximately 30 feet downwind of the basket. The label of the envelope bag should face the basket. The basket should be placed about 10 feet behind the chase vehicle.
Help the pilot install upright poles and set the burner unit in place. Be careful not to pinch your fingers! The pilot or crew chief will connect the carabineers to the burner frame.
Only the pilot will make connections to propane tanks. Once connections are made, help the pilot install leather upright covers and zip into place.
The pilot will connect the tie-off to the chase vehicle. Be sure to be careful around the ropes.
Help the pilot lay the basket over. Open the envelope bag and pull out the lower part of the mouth portion of the envelope. Spread the mouth opening and tuck the heavier Nomex scoop under the mouth material. The pilot will connect the “flying wires” to the basket.
Reprinted from Ca-Zoo Hot Air Balloon Team - Crew Training 101
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