The increase in fires in commercial establishments has worried business owners, shopping center managers and security authorities across the country. In Maranhão, the numbers confirm the scale of the problem: from January to May 2026 alone, the Maranhão Military Fire Department recorded 119 fires in commercial establishments in the state, 90 of which were in São Luís. Fires in Establishments Disclosure/Equatorial The incidents affect different segments, from small stores and restaurants to large shopping centers, causing financial losses, interruption of activities and, in more serious situations, putting lives at risk. According to data from the Fire Department, around 60% of fires are directly related to failures in the properties' internal electrical installations, in addition to circuit overload. The intensive use of high energy consumption equipment, such as air conditioning systems, is also frequently associated with accidents. Fires in Establishments Disclosure/Equatorial This scenario becomes even more challenging in a context of expansion of the commerce and services sector, marked by the increased use of electronic equipment, more powerful lighting and automation systems, often without proper adaptation of internal electrical installations. "The electrical system is usually invisible to the entrepreneur until it presents a problem. The risk is precisely ignoring signs that precede more serious failures", says the Occupational Safety engineer at Equatorial Maranhão, Maxinard Costa. Signs that should not be ignored Maxinard warns that most electrical fires do not happen suddenly. Before the short circuit, there are usually signs that the installation is operating above capacity or has faults. Among the main warning signs are a burning smell near sockets or equipment, excessive heating of equipment, frequent power outages in certain environments and the constant tripping of the electrical protection system. The repeated occurrence of these problems should be seen as a warning. "When the circuit breaker trips frequently, it is fulfilling its function of protecting the installation. Ignoring this behavior can significantly increase the risk of a fire", explains the expert. Growth of equipment increases energy demand In recent years, stores, restaurants and shopping centers have started to incorporate more technological equipment, refrigeration systems, freezers, cold rooms, computers, digital panels and high-power air conditioning units. The challenge is that, in many cases, the electrical infrastructure of properties has not kept up with this evolution. It is common for establishments to expand their operations without properly resizing circuits, increasing the risk of overload. The use of extension cords and adapters popularly known as "T" or benjamins also contributes to the heating of the electrical network. "The increase in energy demand needs to be accompanied by a technical assessment of the facilities. It is not enough to add equipment without checking whether the network supports the new load", warns Maxinard. How to prevent fires in commercial establishments Prevention is the most effective way to reduce risks and avoid problems. The main recommendations include: • Carry out periodic inspections of internal electrical installations; • Avoid excessive use of extension cords and adapters; • Replace old, dry or damaged wires; • Use certified materials in accordance with Brazilian technical standards; • Ensure that the circuits are correctly sized for the installed load; • Install appropriate protective devices; • Hire qualified professionals for electrical services. Environments such as industrial kitchens, refrigeration areas and warehouses require special attention due to the greater concentration of equipment. 192. It is important to highlight that water should not be used to fight fires of this nature, as there is a risk of electric shock. Electrical safety as an investment In addition to avoiding material losses, preventive maintenance contributes to business continuity and the protection of customers and employees. For Equatorial Maranhão, awareness is part of the prevention strategy. information and raise awareness among the population about the risks and dangers related to the use of electrical energy, reaffirming the Distributor's commitment to safety, accident prevention and community well-being.