The Manila Electric Company (Meralco) is all hands-on deck to ensure readiness to address any electricity service concerns that may arise during the holiday break.

The company said on Monday that crews and personnel will remain on standby 24/7, even on Christmas Day, to ensure uninterrupted service for its 8 million customers and help guarantee a bright and accident-free celebration.

“We are reminding our customers to do their part in ensuring a bright and merry holiday season by practicing electrical safety. Rest assured, contingency measures are in place and our crews are on standby ready to respond to any concern on our electricity service,” said Joe R. Zaldarriaga, Meralco vice president and head of Corporate Communications.

Key safety tips

As part of its holiday safety campaign, Meralco advised customers to follow key electrical safety tips.

Customers are encouraged to unplug Christmas lights and other appliances when not in use or before leaving the house to prevent potential hazards. Those reusing Christmas lights should inspect them for cracks, frays, or damages that could pose fire risks.

Meralco also emphasized the importance of proper installation practices, advising against using nails, thumbtacks, or wire staples to hang Christmas lights, as these could damage wires and create fire hazards.

Instead, the company recommended using light hangers in hardware and home stores.

No ‘octopus’ connections

To prevent overloading circuits, Meralco cautioned against “octopus” connections, where multiple extension cords are plugged into each other.

Overloaded electrical outlets or extension cords are a common cause of fire incidents.

Meralco advised households to have a working fire extinguisher readily available in emergencies, ensuring safety during the festive season.