The Manila Electric Company (Meralco) has assured its customers of its readiness to respond to any electricity service concern throughout the holiday season.
While Meralco Business Centers will be closed on declared holidays December 25, 26, 30 and January 1, the company’s operations crews will be on standby 24/7 throughout the holiday season, even on Christmas Day, to keep the lights on and ensure a bright, merry, and accident-free celebration for its 7.8 million customers.
“We encourage our customers to practice electrical safety for a bright and accident-free holiday celebration. Rest assured, contingency measures are in place and our crews are on standby ready to respond to any concern on our electricity service,” Meralco Vice President and Head of Corporate Communications Joe R. Zaldarriaga said.
With the holiday season in full swing, Meralco also advised the public to prioritize safety to avoid any untoward electricity-related incident. Here are some electrical safety tips for customers this holiday season:
Use Christmas lights with quality control markings. Make sure to use the appropriate type for indoor and outdoor setting. For those who are re-using Christmas lights, check for cracked, frayed, or damaged lights since these are potential fire hazards.
Avoid using nails and thumb tacks when installing Christmas lights. Using nails, thumb tacks, and wire staples can damage Christmas lights and create fire hazards. Use light hangers instead which are available in hardware and home stores.
Avoid ‘octopus’ connections and overloading. Do not plug extension cords into one another or octopus connection. Overloaded electrical outlets or extension cords is one of the most common causes of fire incidents.
Unplug Christmas lights and other appliances when not in use. Remember to unplug Christmas lights and other appliances when not in use or before leaving the house.
Have an available fire extinguisher at home. To ensure safety during the holiday season, have a working fire extinguisher ready at home in case of emergencies.
Customers can report power outages and other concerns to Meralco through its official social media accounts on Facebook (www.facebook.com/meralco) and X formerly Twitter (@meralco). They may also text their concerns to 0920-9716211 or 0917-5516211 or contact the Meralco Hotline at 16211 and 8631-1111.