The Launch
At this time, the balloon is inflated and completely vertical, still connected to the tie-off rope, with most of the crew providing weight on the basket. The pilot will load passengers and then begin to heat the balloon to reach buoyancy. The pilot will call for "weight on!", meaning for all crew to place their full weight on the basket keeping one foot on the ground at all times. Once flight temperature is near, the pilot will call for "hands on!", meaning to take most of your weight off the basket keeping your hands on the basket in case weight is needed again quickly. This process make take several cycles.
When ready for launch, the pilot will release the tie-off rope. Be sure to be cautious as the rope may spring back toward the chase vehicle. The pilot will ask you to walk the balloon out as he ascends. "Light hands on" is all that is required at this time. Once released, be sure to wave at the pilot and passengers.
Reprinted from Ca-Zoo Hot Air Balloon Team - Crew Training 101
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