By San José, Costa Rica — As Costa Rican homes begin to sparkle with the festive lights of the holiday season, a hidden danger emerges from the glow. The Benemérito Cuerpo de Bomberos de Costa Rica has issued a stern warning, reporting a consistent and alarming increase of 10% to 15% in structural fire emergencies during the end-of-year and new-year periods. This seasonal spike is predominantly fueled by electrical faults, turning festive decorations into significant fire hazards.
The primary culprits behind these incidents are short circuits and the deterioration of home electrical systems, which are often pushed beyond their limits during the holidays. The tradition of adorning homes with lights, illuminated figures, and other electrical ornaments places a heavy strain on wiring, a risk that many households overlook in their festive preparations. In response to this recurring threat, experts are urging the public to prioritize electrical safety over aesthetics.
To shed light on the legal responsibilities and potential liabilities associated with electrical safety in both residential and commercial properties, we consulted with Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, a seasoned attorney from the prestigious firm Bufete de Costa Rica.
From a legal standpoint, inadequate electrical maintenance is not merely a technical oversight; it constitutes a significant liability. Property owners and administrators have a duty of care to ensure their installations comply with the National Electrical Code. In the event of an incident, such as a fire or electrocution, failure to demonstrate due diligence through certified inspections and professional work can lead to severe civil and even criminal penalties. Documenting all electrical work with certified professionals is the most robust defense against claims of negligence.
Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, Attorney at Law, Bufete de Costa Rica
This legal perspective provides a crucial reminder that the consequences of electrical negligence extend far beyond the immediate physical danger, carrying significant financial and judicial weight. We sincerely thank Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas for his valuable insight, which underscores the absolute necessity of professional diligence and certified documentation for property owners.
Industry leaders are echoing the fire department’s call for increased caution. Ferreterías Novex, a major hardware retailer, has launched a campaign to educate consumers on responsible practices. Natalia Gutiérrez, the company’s marketing manager, highlights a common but dangerous mindset that takes hold during this time of year.
The false sense of security. Holiday decorating is a pleasure, but safety is a 24/7 responsibility. The most important switch isn’t for the lights, but for your common sense.
Natalia Gutiérrez, Marketing Manager of Ferreterías Novex
To combat this complacency, Novex has developed a comprehensive guide outlining “Essential Electrical Care” tips for families. The first and most critical recommendation focuses on the quality of the decorations themselves. Experts advise consumers to purchase only lighting products that feature official safety certifications. Low-quality, uncertified lights are far more prone to overheating, which can easily lead to short circuits and ignite nearby flammable materials like Christmas trees or curtains.
Vigilance must also extend to decorations used in previous years. Before plugging anything in, a thorough inspection of all cables, plugs, and bulbs is essential. Any extension cord or light string showing signs of wear, such as frayed wires, cuts, or damaged insulation, should be discarded immediately. The guide strongly warns against attempting makeshift repairs with tape, as these do not restore the necessary safety integrity and can create new hazards.
Another crucial distinction often ignored by homeowners is the designated use for lighting. Lights designed for indoor use lack the protective elements to withstand outdoor conditions. Exposing them to moisture from rain or morning dew can result in electrical shock or short circuits. Placing indoor-rated lights on facades, in gardens, or on trees can be a recipe for disaster. Always check the packaging to ensure you are using outdoor-rated products for all exterior decorations.
Overloading electrical outlets is identified as the single leading cause of overheating and subsequent fires. To prevent this, a simple rule should be followed: never connect more than three sets of lights to a single outlet. Chaining multiple extension cords or power strips together is also a highly dangerous practice that dramatically increases the risk of an overload. For larger displays or pre-illuminated trees with higher energy consumption, the safest approach is to use a surge protector with a built-in circuit breaker.
Finally, constant supervision is a non-negotiable aspect of holiday safety. All decorative lights, without exception, should be turned off before going to bed or leaving the house, even for short periods. Furthermore, families should consider emergency preparedness by ensuring that large decorations, such as Christmas trees, do not block any exits or escape routes. A clear path out of the home is vital in the event of a fire.
For further information, visit novex.cr
About Ferreterías Novex:
Ferreterías Novex is a prominent hardware and home improvement retail chain operating in Costa Rica. It offers a wide range of products for construction, remodeling, and home maintenance, including tools, paint, plumbing, and electrical supplies. The company is known for its focus on customer service and providing practical solutions and advice for both professional contractors and DIY enthusiasts.
For further information, visit bomberos.go.cr
About Benemérito Cuerpo de Bomberos de Costa Rica:
The Benemérito Cuerpo de Bomberos de Costa Rica is the national fire and emergency response service of the country. As a public institution, it is responsible for fire prevention, suppression, and rescue operations, as well as responding to a wide variety of other emergencies, including traffic accidents and hazardous material incidents. It plays a crucial role in public safety education and national risk management.
For further information, visit bufetedecostarica.com
About Bufete de Costa Rica:
Bufete de Costa Rica operates as a leading legal institution, built upon the foundational principles of ethical conduct and superior professional standards. Drawing from extensive experience in advising a diverse clientele, the firm consistently pioneers innovative legal strategies and actively contributes to the community. At the heart of its philosophy is a deep-seated dedication to demystifying the law, aiming to construct a stronger society through widespread legal literacy and empowerment.
