The Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP) reminded the public to strictly adhere to fire prevention regulations to ensure a stress-free and safe celebration during the Holiday season.

In a statement, the BFP advised the public to avoid electrical overloading (use LED lights, check cords), keep flammables away from heat/flames, have a fire escape plan, turn off electronics before leaving/sleeping and keep kids away from matches/lighters. 

During the festive season, the BFP urged the public to choose LED Christmas lights with Philippine Standard (PS) or Import Commodity Clearance (ICC) marks.

The public was also asked to discard frayed or damaged extension cords and light strings and to avoid plugging too many lights/decorations into one outlet and use ground fault circuit interrupter (GFCI) outlets for outdoors.

As a precautionary measure, the BFP reminded the public to turn off all holiday lights and appliances before sleeping or leaving the house. 

In cooking and open flames, the BFP noted that supervised cooking should be maintained, stressing that household members should stay in the kitchen while cooking while keeping flammable items away from the stove.

“Keep lighted candles, oil lamps, and mosquito coils away from curtains and other flammable materials. Avoid smoking in bed or near combustible materials,’’ the BFP said.

As for general and travel safety, the BFP told the public to keep flammable liquids and substances out of the house and to secure homes by turning off the main circuit breakers if leaving for vacation or inform trusted neighbors of their plans.

“Have a plan, ensure everyone knows two ways out of each room and has a fire escape plan. Keep kids safe, store matches and lighters out of children's reach,’’ the BFP noted.