street parties in rio are great fun, and even more so when some basic safety precautions are followed.

thousands of revelers dance together, march, and drink - so shoes must be worn, as following blocos around town in flip-flops is not only uncomfortable but dangerous.

crowds grow suddenly, and it is easy for participants to accidentally step on other's feet.

most blocos have trucks with a band on top or it, or a singer and a dj, playing loud music to animate the party.

the city authorizes music to be played at a maximum power of 50000 watts, and many blocos sure reach this limit.