Find out how to install light decorations without risk and using energy efficiently
TO colorful christmas lights they are already adorning houses, palaces, squares and businesses in cities. Despite the beauty that each decoration offers, it can also pose risks for people. Electricity must be used efficiently and safely to decorate Christmas trees, gardens, squares, balconies, windows, shopping centers and shops.
For this reason, Enel Distribuição São Paulo warns against some precautions with the assembly and maintenance of Christmas decorations inside and outside to ensure safety.
Most electrical accidents happen because of lack of information, attention or improper use of materials and tools🇧🇷 The fire may have started due to a short circuit in the electricity grid. Also, you need to pay attention to the increased energy consumption they are exposed to.
The head of the safety area of Enel Distribuição São Paulo, Marcelo Gomes, explains that it is normal for ornaments and blinkers to be used from one year to the next.
“The recommendation is that customers check the condition of these wires and if they are dry, cracked, broken or if there are broken bulbs, avoid using them, as an ornament can endanger the entire decoration,” he warns.
Gomes also draws attention to the use of ‘T’s in installations, a common risk not only when it comes to rearranging Christmas decorations, but one that many people are often exposed to without even realizing it.
“The accessory concentrates the intensity of high currents in a single point, which can cause heating, melting the “T” and causing a fire. Furthermore, being a hot point, it automatically increases consumption, since the energy is transformed into heat without any uses and is wasted,” he points out.
The distributor also informs customers of the installation of light props in the external area of the residence. If you do not take preventive measures, the chances of electric shock and short circuit are greater, as the action of time can dry out the wiring and the presence of water can enhance the effects of the conduction of electric current.
How to save energy
When purchasing “flashlights”, it is important to check the indication in watts (W), given on the package, which corresponds to the power required by a given product. The higher the power, the higher the consumption of the Christmas decoration.
It is also worth mentioning that leaving the Speedlight on for a longer time will generate power consumption. Another good tip is to use products with LED technology which, in addition to contributing to a reduction of up to 80% in energy consumption, are also safer.
Other safety tips:
- Unplug the flasher from the outlet when changing bulbs and never do this by pulling the plug from the harness;
- Review the electrical systems of the residence before starting the decoration;
- When shopping for light fixtures, look for products that are approved and bear the seal of the National Institute of Metrology, Quality, and Technology (Inmetro). Products without approval may cause overheating, short circuit and fire;
- Do not place lights next to paper or card decorations. The best thing is not to use this type of decoration on the tree if you plan to use blinders;
- Set a preset time for switching on and off. Ideally, from 18:00 to 24:00, avoiding energy waste and the risk of accidents and the triggering of fires;
- Avoid leaving the system in an area subject to rain or flooding and do not leave the wiring within the reach of children or pets;
- Do not install the decorative lamp set in a metal and pointed structure;
- Do not allow children to handle direction indicators, lanyards and luminous ribbons, leaving them out of the reach of minors or pets;
- Bare wires cause shocks, short circuits, and sometimes fires. Wires under carpets or behind curtains can also cause fires;
- This time of year, in addition to lighting, people usually set off fireworks. Beware of artifacts, do not drop them near power lines as they can cause fires, network failures and accidents.
Facades of buildings or commercial activities
Engage the service of an engineer, technician, or electrician to size the wiring and circuit protection for the load to be connected;
For installations on facades, check proximity to the electricity grid, as in the event of rain and strong winds, the decorative lighting could touch the electricity grid and cause short circuits.
In the event of an accident:
- Isolate the place so that people never go near and touch the broken wires;
- Do not remove objects or people who are in contact with the cables until a qualified professional is satisfied that the power has been switched off;
- Call the Fire Brigade immediately, by calling 193, and Enel Distribuição São Paulo by calling 0800 72 72 196.
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Source: Terra
Ben Stock is a lifestyle journalist and author at Gossipify. He writes about topics such as health, wellness, travel, food and home decor. He provides practical advice and inspiration to improve well-being, keeps readers up to date with latest lifestyle news and trends, known for his engaging writing style, in-depth analysis and unique perspectives.
