Vitória, July 3, 2018 - A survey conducted by EDP, an electricity distributor in Espírito Santo, shows that between the months of January and June of 2018 559 incidents of interruption of power were reported due to kites in the electrical grid, which resulted in the shutdown of the power supply to more than 93 thousand customers.

Some materials used in the production of kites, such as homemade kites that are made of metal thread, are conductors of energy and increase the danger when they come in contact with the power grid. When they lean against electrical network cables, in addition to power failure and equipment damage, accidents such as burns and even death may occur.

At the executive manager of Commercial Service, Evandro Scopel, points out that kite play should always be done safely. " people should look for open spaces, such as parks and fields where there is no risk of contact with power lines, since a kite making with electric cables ends up adversely affecting the whole population with the interruption of energy to homes, streets and squares, for example".

At the manager also warns that the throwing of objects at the electric grid in order to rescue kites can cause serious accidents. "A short circuit caused by kites in the electrical grid can cause material damage, burns, amputation of limbs or can lead to death. People should never meddle with the electricity grid. The EDP should be engaged and technical teams shuttled in to clean the wires restore energy supply, "added Scopel.

At the use of cerol is prohibited. Releasing balloons is a crime under article 42 of the Environmental Crimes Act. The penalty varies from one to two years of detention and/or a fine.

It is worth mentioning that, in the event of incidents relating to the electricity grid, customers should immediately report what happened. The Distributor adds that the consumer enjoys the convenience and ease of requesting services, clarifying doubts and reporting possible risks with the electricity grid or to report the interruption of service through through the following channels:

• EDP Online at www.edponline.com.br

• EDP Online application (compatible with tablets and smartphones with Android™, iOS and Windows Phone platforms).

• Customer Service Center: 0800 721 0707

All service channels are free and operate 24 hours a day.

** Check out the tips and play safely **

\ - Some materials used in the production of kites are conductors of energy and increase danger when they make contact with the power grid. Homemade kites made of metallic threads is an example;

\ - The use of cerol is prohibited. Cerol is a risk for motorcyclists and pedestrians and also presents a danger when in contact with the power grid. Upon cutting the protective layer of the wire, the line interrupts the transfer of electrical current, which may cause a short circuit;

\ - Throwing objects into the power grid to rescue the kite can cause serious accidents. The "cat spear" (stones attached to a line) or any other energy-carrying item should not be thrown over the network;

\ - Flying kites in areas with slabs and walls should be avoided. The proximity to the power grid increases the risk of accidents;

\ - It is expressly forbidden to trespass onto EDP substations to recover kites and balloons. These places are electrified and only authorized people may enter these stations;

\ - An accident caused by an electrical discharge can result in consequences such as burns and even death.