Meralco issues guidelines for safe Christmas light usage

MANILA, Philippines - The country’s biggest electricity distributor, Manila Electric Co. (Meralco) has again come out with suggestions on how to safely use Christmas lights to ensure a safe and accident free Christmas. Meralco is reminding all its customers that installing Christmas lights and decorations can be hazardous, especially when installed near power lines. "The public is thus advised to stay away from said power lines when installing Christmas lights or decorations," Meralco Safety and Environment Head Engineer Alfredo Ramos said in a statement. He added that among the common causes of electricity-related fires during Christmas are the following: overloading due to "octopus connections" for Christmas lights and decor; bulbs and other light sources coming in contact with curtains or combustible Christmas decor, and; leaving Christmas lights on and unattended for long periods of time. The company said people should avoid using Christmas lights with frayed wires and using lights and decor meant for the indoors for outdoor purposes. Likewise, People should purchase only lights and electrical decorations approved by the Bureau of Product Standards. It is also suggested that before one uses Christmas lights, test them first by bending the wire and if the insulation cracks (exposing the metal inside), discard the lights. "Children should not play with Christmas lights since this can lead to electrical shock or electrocution." Mr. Ramos said. "Further, do not use foil or other metallic objects in place of busted light bulbs in a Christmas light string. In replacing light bulbs or fuses, make sure to unplug the Christmas lights first. Likewise, if the insulation of the Christmas lights is still good but there are exposed conductors due to straining when installing and removing the lights, either discard them or have them repaired by a qualified repairman. When purchasing an artificial tree, too, make sure it is labeled as fire-retardant, especially if you intend to decorate it with Christmas lights," he added. — Ava Kashima K. Austria, BusinessWorld