Safety with lights
DIWALI is the festival of lights and the celebration of this religious festival would be incomplete without them. While decorating, some of us prefer to focus only on the front exteriors of the house while others enjoy embellishing their entire building with lights.
Thus, arises the need for lighting options which are cheap and efficient. There are many types of lights used by Hindus during Diwali, both modern and traditional.
Types of decorative Diwali lights
Decorative lights used during Diwali include:
1. Diya — A traditional light made out of clay, it is a common sight around Hindu homes during Diwali. These are cheap to purchase and uses oil and cotton to be lit.
2. Fairy lights — Also known as flicking lights; these lights have evolved over the past two decades. From ordinary string lights to unique patterns and designs, fairy lights are an eye-catcher during Diwali.
3. Paper lanterns — This may be an old idea, but the look they impart is nice. You can do a lot of experiments with your family with this unique décor idea.
4. Bamboo torches — Over the years, bamboo torches have become a trend for Diwali. While some consumers prefer buying it, others reuse old cans and wood to make their own bamboo torches. These are normally placed near the entrance of one's house, or around the compound.
5. Candles — There are many types of candles available for purchasing during Diwali. Floating candles are seen to be quite famous around homes.
Improper use of these lights can result in the loss of homes and loved ones. Therefore, it is extremely important that consumers follow some safety tips when lighting up their homes this Diwali.
Safety checklist
1. Place your lights as far as possible from any flammable household items source such as curtains or furnishings. This is especially important for diya
lamps.
2. Before you place up the lights, carefully check them for cracks, frayed ends, loose connections or any other damages. Do not compromise with any lights.
3. When plugging using electric extension cords, make sure that it is completely uncoiled and are not placed under the rug. Keep an eye on extension cords as they can occasionally overheat. Touch-test the cord occasionally and unplug it if it's hot.
4. If your home suffers from electrical issues, get it checked by a licensed electrician before using electrical lights.
5. Keep children and pets away from all decorative lights.
Exercise caution when purchasing decorative lights
You will come across "Diwali Bonanza" at quite a number of shops during Diwali. Do not get swayed by the prices and rush into purchasing decorative lights without considering the following:
1. Test all electrical materials that you are looking forward to purchase. Whether they are fairy lights, power boards, extension cords or double adapters, always remember to get them tested by the electronics team in store.
2. Always inspect the decorative lights for any signs of damage or wear and tear. Do not purchase fairy lights with missing bulbs; diya lamps with cracks; pack of candles with torn wicks; or bamboo torches with damaged stands, just because it’s "Reduced to clear".
3. Purchase energy-saving LED fairy lights as it does not get hot easily and uses less power.
4. Not all lights are rated for outdoor use. Indoor fairy lights often have thinner insulation, which can become cracked and damaged when exposed to the elements outdoors. If you are purchasing lights for outdoor use, make sure to read the instructions or check with the sales staff.
5. Purchase light protection gear. Purchase power boards which have devices that incorporate overload protection and earth leakage protection. Try purchasing power boards with more than four outlets. Purchase battery operate candles or diya
lamps when using it with paper lantern. Do not purchase plastic basins for floating candles.
Diwali is one of the most fervently celebrated festivals in Fiji and consumers should ensure to take safety seriously during this time. For further tips on purchasing decorative lights, contact the National Consumer Helpline on toll-free number 155 or by email on complaints@consumersfiji. org.
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