When it comes to lighting, we are used to lighting that shines from above, like the sun or the moon and many artificial light sources that mostly are used from the ceiling or poles. In my early career as a lighting director for movies and television we used to up light or semi up light certain features or backgrounds in order to create dramatic visual effects. Back When I owned an event lighting company in Israel, I had an opportunity to implement some of what I have learned in the motion pictures industry. Back then there was no culture of lighting for events, the little lighting that was done was mainly halogen floodlights hanging on high poles and flooding spaces with a glaring light. Bringing the techniques I’ve learned in the motion pictures lighting, I have started up lighting trees, bushes, walls, architectural features, backgrounds etc. This created a lighting effect that was beautiful, dramatic and overwhelmed people. During the many evenings and nights that I spent overseeing the events, I used to stand close to the entry to the event location and watch people’s reaction when they entered the space. I noticed an interesting thing, the beauty we created using these special techniques of lighting, was so surprising and “out of this world” that people would just stop in their place, breath deeply with a quiet sigh and soak the view with admiration. That taught me how powerfully lighting can effect human emotions. As I started designing for architectural lighting projects, I carried on my experience from both the motion lighting and event lighting and started using in floor lighting in my designs. The first notable project that this technique was implemented for was around 1992 for the Wailing Wall tunnels in Jerusalem. The effect was surprising, interesting, complementing to the architectural nature of the tunnels, warm and dramatic.

As you have likely noticed, Winter is well on its way in the Greater Vancouver area and Lower Mainland. With heavy snowfall and stormy weather predicted for this upcoming Winter season, it’s important for residents in these areas to brush up on all electrical safety procedures and best practices. The licensed electricians at Expert Electric have been providing Vancouver and the Lower Mainland with residential and commercial electrical services for many years. Check out our list of Winter electrical safety tips to keep you protected this Winter season.

Don’t get caught unprepared in a local power outage. Every year, residents of the Greater Vancouver area and Lower Mainland lose power due to local power outages. In recent years, some residents have been stuck without power for up to 72 hours. As a rule of thumb, ensure that you are fully prepared with an emergency kit that contains enough supplies to last up to 72 hours without power. Some of the supplies that your power outage emergency kit should include are batteries, candles, matches, flashlights, bottled water, non-perishable foods and more. For a full list of emergency kit supplies, please visit the BC Hydro website.

Winter storms can cause significant damage to trees outside your property. It is important to inspect any trees on or near your property that could result in damage to your home or building. Any loose branches should be removed to minimize the risk of falling. Large trees can also damage power lines and vehicles. If possible, park your vehicle in a safe area that is located away from any large trees that could fall on it. If you are unsure of whether a tree poses a significant threat to your property, call the licensed electricians at Expert Electric.

Snowfall and Winter storms mean an influx in the amount of water present on your property. Because water and electricity don’t mix, it is crucial to ensure that there are no loose wires or electrical cords present around your property. All electrical equipment should be stored safely away while not in use. Any large electrical equipment such as pools, hot tubs or outdoor lighting should be inspected to ensure that it is operating properly and the equipment’s cords and electrical wiring are hazard free.

If you would like further information about Winter electrical safety tips, please contact one of our licensed electricians at 604-681-8338. We are happy to answer any questions you may have. Our team of licensed electricians has been servicing the Greater Vancouver area and Lower Mainland for many years. We offer various types of electrician services including electric water heaters, surge protectors, ceiling fan installation and more. Visit our website to book an appointment today.