With the Christmas holiday just days away, T&T is urging caution with regard to the use of fireworks and fire lanterns.

It warns that these pose significant danger to personal property and electricity infrastructure, since indiscriminate use can lead to major electricity outages or fires if they get caught in overhead lines or transformers.

T&TEC is says persons using such items should exercise extreme caution – it says fireworks/fire lanterns should be set up and used in an open area clear of substations, overhead power lines, transformers, and poles.

Consideration should also be given to breeze or winds, as these can blow devices in other directions.

Also avoid using fireworks in an area where T&TEC’s emergency/night crews may be present.

On another note, fireworks users are urged to consider elderly, sick, and other persons who may be sensitive to sudden, loud noises.

Consideration should also be given to animals, and pet owners are advised to keep them indoors.

T&TEC says those using fireworks or fire lanterns as part of their celebrations should be guided by the following:

• Carefully set up and use fireworks/ lanterns in an open area, clear of substations and overhead power lines/poles. Do not string fireworks on utility poles.
• Point fireworks away from homes/ buildings/ overhead power lines. 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 800 BULB (2852).
• Have consideration for others—babies, the sick and elderly are sensitive to loud noises. Limit your use of fireworks.
• 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.