Meralco to customers: Practice electrical safety during Undas

The Manila Electric Co. (Meralco) has advised consumers to take extra precautions regarding electrical safety for the coming All Saints’ Day long weekend, particularly those expected to leave their homes and head out of town to cemeteries to pay respects to their deceased loved ones.

The country’s largest power distributor reminded consumers to make sure appliances are turned off and unplugged before leaving the house, especially television sets, DVD/Blu-Ray players, stereos and other electronic devices that consume stand-by power that adds unnecessary costs to the electric bill.

Combustible materials must also be kept away from outdoor lighting and other sources of heat.

“For a safe and peaceful observance of Undas, we must be vigilant in ensuring home electrical safety and efficiency measures,” Meralco Public Information Office head Joe Zaldarriaga said.

Meralco also recommended that consumers set their refrigerators’ thermostats to a slightly higher setting when going on short trips, while those going away for extended periods should turn off and empty their refrigerators and keep their doors open to prevent growth of molds.

Meralco also recommended the use of other rechargeable products like fans, radios and USB mobile chargers—on top of emergency lamps—in cemeteries for comfort, convenience and cost efficiency.

For those who plan to stay overnight or extend their visit in the cemeteries, Zaldarriaga also gave outdoor electrical safety tips, including using extension cords and power strips which are built for outdoor use; ensuring that they are securely installed (wires should be taped on areas where people are walking/crossing, and make sure water from rain and other sources don’t reach the wires).