Deck the Halls Safely

I've mentioned from my other blog that I'd be decorating the house today. Things I need to purchase later are the Christmas lights, because the old ones we have here are not working anymore. replacement bulbs are costly, so must buy new sets. With that said, I won't buy cheap ones at K****n stores, or along the sidewalk because most of the lights they're selling are not safe. I'm a bargain shopper, but I won't risk my home's safety with that. So if you guys want to purchase Christmas lights, buy and use the ones that are approved by Department of Trade and Industry (DTI), and are certified by the Bureau of Product Standards (BPS). You'll also see a sticker of the Philippine Standard (PS) or Import Commodity Clearance (ICC) placed on the package, indicating that it is approved and safe to use.

So to safely decking the halls, and keep yourself and home safe, I'm giving you quick tips.

• Check your lights. If you will be reusing your old Christmas lights, and other electrical decor, better check the cords. Because some may tend to wear out after a few years of keeping and using. Always have them checked before you use or purchase new sets, and or experiment with other ways of decorating.
• Unplug. Christmas lights are pretty at night, right? But if they overheat while you're away or asleep, you will not be near to prevent a fire from happening.
  
• Use the right type of light. Indoor lights and extension cords are not made to withstand the elements. The rain for example, may ruin your decor or short circuit and might start the fire. Use only lights and extension cords specified for the outdoors.
• Less is safer. Make sure you connect no more than three (3) strands of Christmas lights together. Do not overload extension cords, power strips and wall outlets.
• Keep them dry. Make sure outdoor lights and decor are kept dry.
• Keep them away from heat. They can burst into flames when exposed to other sources of high temperatures.