To start the “cold” portion of the inflation, the inflation fan is placed next to the basket, a few feet away, and pointing towards the envelope mouth (also called “throat”). The mouth of the envelope is held open by two crewmembers, one on either side. Anchor the bottom with your foot but don’t entangle yourself in the load wires. Hold the upper cables, making sure not to twist the envelope relative to the basket. Form a rectangular opening - tall and narrow.

This gives a passage for the cold air, and keeps the fabric clear of the flame during later hot inflation. The fan is started and the cold air is directed into the open mouth of the balloon.

As the cold air begins inflating the envelope, the pilot or another experienced crewmember will go to the top (“crown”) of the balloon to insert and check the thermometer, check the parachute release line, and install the parachute top. The parachute top is removable to allow controlled release of hot air. During inflation, however, it needs to be velcroed shut.

After the parachute top is in place, the crown line operator should begin putting tension on the crown line. The object now is to stabilize the envelope and keep it from rolling around from side to side.

Another set of items that needs to be checked, especially on special shaped balloons are the special openings on the envelope that allow trapped air to be released during deflation. It is important that these openings be properly closed prior to or during cold inflation. The pilot or crew chief will brief you on the location and care of any such openings on the balloon.