By Sue-Ann Wayow
WITH many gearing to end the year 2022 with a bang, literally, the public is being advised to use fireworks safely.
The Trinidad and Tobago Electricity Commission (T&TEC) in a media release on Thursday stated while fireworks and fire lanterns aka sky lanterns may be lovely to look at, they pose significant danger to personal property and electricity infrastructure.
“The indiscriminate use of such devices can lead to major electricity outages or fires if they get caught in overhead lines or transformers,” T&TEC stated.
Persons using them are cautioned to be extremely careful.
T&TEC further advises:
• Carefully set up and use fireworks/lanterns in an open area, clear of substation and overhead power lines. Do not string fireworks on utility poles;
• Point fireworks away from homes/buildings. Keep away from brush, leaves and flammable substances. Watch out for utility lines that they could strike and result in major outages;
•Do not attempt to retrieve fire lanterns if they get caught in T&TEC’s infrastructure. Contact the Commission urgently at 800 TTEC (8832) or 2 800 BULB (2852) ;
• Have consideration for others—babies, the sick and elderly are sensitive to loud noises. Limit your use of fireworks; and
• Think about pets. Animals have sensitive ears and can be extremely frightened or stressed by loud noises. Keep pets indoors to reduce the risk that they may run loose or get injured.
