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Frances Berríos Meléndez, President of the Electrical Experts Association of Puerto Rico (CPEPR in Spanish), has kicked off the institution’s Safe Christmas 2024 campaign via social media platforms.
This initiative is focused on educating Puerto Rican families regarding the dangers linked to electrical connections in decorations commonly employed during the much-anticipated holiday period.
Safe Christmas is an initiative designed to guarantee that holiday celebrations are enjoyed with the security that residents deserve, which is why Berríos Meléndez emphasized the necessity of making electrical safety a priority in homes across Puerto Rico.
“The holiday season is a time for happiness and celebration, yet we must not overlook that, amid the thrill of decorations, come duties and, at times, risks that we need to avert,” she expressed. “Depending on the scale of the decorations, families should take the time to assess their electrical systems with a licensed and certified electrician. This ensures that everything is in optimal condition and minimizes the risk of accidents or damages.”
To enhance community access to qualified professionals, the CPEPR has established its website, www.colegiodeperitoselectricistas.org, where those interested can find a list of electricians categorized by towns, allowing them to choose the one they prefer and ensure their systems are adequately examined prior to the festivities.
Berríos Meléndez pointed out that circuit overloads are among the most frequent and hazardous mistakes. This practice leads to overheating within the electrical system, raising the risk of fires. Therefore, it is wise to evaluate circuit capacities and distribute decorations appropriately. Each family should be aware of the number of lights, extensions, and devices they utilize to avoid connecting more than what the system can support.
“Electrical cables and extensions must be inspected prior to use,” the CPEPR president stated. “Those exhibiting signs of damage, such as frayed or exposed covers, pose risks and should be replaced immediately. It is advisable to keep all types of lights and cables away from curtains, furniture, and other flammable objects. The mix of appealing decorations and negligence can lead to regrettable occurrences. Extension cords should not be placed on the floor, particularly in areas where children or the elderly may trip and fall.”
Additionally, Berríos Meléndez mentioned that using timers for decorations simplifies the process of controlling when the lights turn on and off, reducing the risk of forgetting to switch them off at the end of the night. Extension cords should also be kept off the floor, especially in high-traffic zones, near lawnmowers, or in areas where pets might chew them; doing so can create a risk of electrocution if someone steps on them.
“We advise utilizing certified cables that adhere to the standards set by Underwriters Laboratories (UL), an independent organization committed to product safety that establishes criteria for electrical and electronic items,” Berríos Meléndez noted. “Cables bearing the UL mark have undergone testing and comply with specific safety and performance standards.”
