EDP suggests safe and economic decoration in the end of year holiday period
Use of LED lamps and attention to overloading plugs and insulation can prevent accidents due to lighting
The holiday season is coming, when many people decorate their residences and commercial establishments with Christmas trees and bright ornaments, which amaze both children and adults.
However, to keep the party from causing accidents or giving consumers a fright because of the increase in their electricity bill, EDP, an electric energy distributor in Alto Tietê, Vale do Paraíba and the North Coast of São Paulo, makes recommendations for the correct installation and use of the lights and other electrical equipment in Christmas decoration.
The main tips for a more economic and safe decorating inside and out concern adequate electrical insulation, installation of LED bulbs and not overloading outlets and extension cords. For this, care should begin when purchasing the material. The ideal is to choose quality items to ensure the best electrical insulation possible. Therefore, it is recommended to purchase regulated products by the National Institute of Metrology, Standardization and Industrial Quality (Inmetro) that displays on the packaging proof of meeting requirements for quality and safety.
Regarding blinking lights, the suggestion is to invest in ones with LED lamps, which not only are more beautiful and economical, but are also efficient, durable and therefore more ecologically correct. Regarding installation in an area subject to rain or flooding, the decorations must be impermeable to be safer and last longer.
On the product packaging it is also important to evaluate the power in watts (W), which corresponds to the load demanded. This is because, the greater the watts, the greater the consumption of the Christmas ornament. "Equipment must be connected only to outlets, minimizing the probability of overheating of the internal electric circuit, current leakage and, consequently, the risk of accidents and an increase in light bills, "says Marcos Scarpa, EDP institutional public - relations director.
A short circuit in the main electrical grid can be caused by use of the equipment or prolonged use in one outlet. "One of the most common mistakes made by consumers is using too many extensions and bad or uninsulated wires," warns Scarpa.
Check these important points:
To avoid overloading of power, seek the guidance of an electrician, who will calculate what can or can not be turned on. If necessary, the professional will equalize the circuit in the residence by means of a small adjustment in the electrical installation;
Many Christmas trees are made of wire, and since this material is a powerful electrical conduit, it must be well insulated to prevent accidental electric shocks;
Bare wires cause shocks, short circuits and, sometimes, fires. Wiring under carpets or behind curtains may also cause accidents;
Before replacing burnt-out bulbs on Christmas adornments, turn off the equipment at the outlet;
Turning off light decorations before sleeping or leaving home contributes a reduced energy bill and avoids accidents;
For decorations in outdoor areas, check the proximity to the EDP supply lines, because in the case of heavy rain with wind, the installed decorative lighting can touch the electric supply wires causing serious accidents;
For the installation of higher power light sets on the facades of buildings, squares and avenues, hire the service of an engineer, technician or electrician to size the wiring and protect the electric circuit according to the load to be connected.
In case of accidents or occurrences in the electrical network, please contact immediately the EDP Call Center, at 0800 721 0123, 24 hours a day, or through the Virtual Agency, at www.edp.com.br.
