<p>FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE</p><p>STORY CONTACT: Bonnie Jones PHONE: 706/367-6114 (office) 706/207-7973 (cell)</p><p>Jackson EMC Says Light the Holidays Safely</p><p>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. </p><p>Below are tips to help avoid injury from holiday light displays: </p><p> Check every electrical decoration carefully for cracked or frayed wiring, plugs and </p><p> loose connections.</p><p> If a light strand is damaged, don’t take chances. Use approved parts from the </p><p> manufacturer to repair the strand, or replace it. </p><p> When putting up lights, don’t nail or staple through the electrical cords. It could crack</p><p> around the wiring that could lead to shock or electrical fire. </p><p> If using extension cords with outdoor decorations, make sure they are rated for </p><p> outdoor use, and be sure to keep them out of water and snow. Also, check to see that </p><p> lights are labeled with a certification from a national testing laboratory or agency. </p><p> Don’t put electric lights on artificial trees with metallic parts. </p><p> Never leave decorations lighted while away from home or after going to bed. </p><p> Unplug light strings before replacing bulbs or fuses. </p><p>For more safety information, contact Jackson EMC, a consumer-owned electric cooperative providing electricity and related services to 194,000 customers in metro </p><p>Atlanta and northeast Georgia.</p><p>###</p>