Meralco urges public to secure homes for ‘Undas’ long weekend

The Manila Electric Co (Meralco) has advised its customers to take extra precautions regarding electrical safety for the upcoming 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 customers to ensure that appliances are turned off and unplugged before leaving the house, especially since appliances such as television sets, DVD/Blu-Ray players, stereos and other electronic devices consume stand-by power that adds unnecessary costs to your 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 refrigerators’ thermostats be set 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 advised that, on top of emergency lamps, other rechargeable products like fans, radios and USB mobile chargers be used 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); and checking the capacity of the power strip before connecting appliances to prevent overloading.

Meanwhile, candles should be away from flammable materials like curtains, furniture, books and newspapers.

Lit candles should never be left unattended, and should be put out once the user leaves the room or area where it is lit. Candles should only be placed on stable surfaces, out of reach of children or pets.

Zaldarriaga added that apart from the regular maintenance and upgrading of facilities, Meralco is ready to provide 24/7 assistance during Undas as personnel will also be on standby to respond to any contingency or unexpected power interruptions.

For power-related concerns, customers may get in touch with Meralco’s 24-hour call center at 16211. They may also send their reports via Meralco’s Facebook (www.facebook.com/meralco) and Twitter (@meralco) accounts./rga

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