Rescue a Balloon with a Helium Transfusion

Step 3 Inflate the Patient Balloon

Insert the other end of the tube into the valve stem of the balloon you are trying to save. You don't need to go very far up the stem on this side; the gas is going to be flowing the way that the valve is designed to allow. Now, holding both balloon necks to keep them from coming off of the tube, squeeze the sacrificial balloon, and helium show flow from it into the balloon you're rescuing. Keep squeezing until either the sacrificial balloon is as empty as you can get it, or the patient balloon is full and firm. You may have to repeat the last steps with several sacrificial balloons if your balloons are really empty.