Balloons With a Helium Tank

• Purchase a helium tank at a party supply store. Helium tanks are available at most party stores and as of 2010 typically cost between $75 and $150. Choose a tank that works for your needs. A small 10 lb. helium tank will inflate approximately 85 nine-inch balloons and 45 11-inch balloons; a medium 25 lb. helium tank will inflate 200 9-inch balloons and 100 11-inch balloons; and a large 40 lb. helium tank will inflate 450 9-inch balloons and 250 11-inch balloons.
  
  Keep the helium cylinder upright at all times and store it in a well-ventilated area. Secure the cylinder so it cannot be knocked over. Always open the cylinder valve very slowly, and don't stand directly in front of the valve when opening it. Always close the valve after each use. Use caution when working with helium. Helium is a non-flammable, non-toxic gas, but can cause asphyxiation if misused. Breathing in helium can cause unconsciousness through oxygen displacement.
  
  To fill the balloons with helium, simply place the mouth of each balloon over the nozzle of the helium tank and open the valve slowly. Inflate to desired size.
  
  

Homemade 'Helium'

• Use this homemade technique for a science project. You will need: safety goggles, a glass bottle with a narrow neck, vinegar, baking soda, a funnel, water and a balloon.
  
  Pour 1 inch of vinegar and 1 inch of water into the glass bottle. Fill the balloon at least halfway with baking soda, using the funnel. Make sure the bottle neck is completely dry, then stretch the mouth of the balloon over the bottle neck. Let the balloon dangle over the edge of the bottle, making sure the baking soda doesn't enter the bottle. Finally, pick up the heavy end of the balloon and let the baking soda fall into the vinegar and water solution in the bottle.
  
  The baking soda will fizz and the balloon should stand up straight, just like a helium balloon.