Jackson EMC Says Light the Holidays Safely

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

STORY CONTACT: Bonnie Jones PHONE: 706/367-6114 (office) 706/207-7973 (cell)

According to officials with Jackson EMC, consumers who decorate during the holidays with indoor or outdoor electric lights should take precautions to do so safely.

Below are tips to help avoid injury from holiday light displays:

 Check every electrical decoration carefully for cracked or frayed wiring, plugs and

loose connections.

 If a light strand is damaged, don’t take chances. Use approved parts from the

manufacturer to repair the strand, or replace it.

 When putting up lights, don’t nail or staple through the electrical cords. It could crack

around the wiring that could lead to shock or electrical fire.

 If using extension cords with outdoor decorations, make sure they are rated for

outdoor use, and be sure to keep them out of water and snow. Also, check to see that

lights are labeled with a certification from a national testing laboratory or agency.

 Don’t put electric lights on artificial trees with metallic parts.

 Never leave decorations lighted while away from home or after going to bed.

 Unplug light strings before replacing bulbs or fuses.

For more safety information, contact Jackson EMC, a consumer-owned electric cooperative providing electricity and related services to 194,000 customers in metro

Atlanta and northeast Georgia.