Bosch Security Systems offers tips for a hazard-free Christmas Season

CEBU, Philippines - ‘Tis once again the season for festive decorations. Each year, Filipinos come up with more extravagant and creative ways to celebrate the holidays, investing heavily in stunning light displays for their homes or for business establishments. With Christmas just around the corner, Bosch reminds revelers that ‘making spirits bright’ also means being responsible for keeping their environment safe from décor-related fire incidents.

Last year, two separate fires ravaged homes in Manila on Christmas Day and left thousands homeless. According to some news reports, the fires were likely triggered by an electric malfunction caused by the overuse of Christmas lights during parties. To avoid incidents like these, both households and commercial establishments must take extra precaution in decorating with candles and lights.

To keep the season merry, safe, and stress-free this year, Bosch Security Systems offers safety tips for both home and business owners.

Get fire-free Christmas trees

For those who have decided to use live trees this Christmas, make sure that the tree is fresh and has strong needles that do not break easily. One must water the tree at all times, as dry trees catch fire faster than a properly maintained one. When purchasing an artificial tree, try to look for one that is fire resistant, so it can resist burning and extinguish quickly in the event of a fire.

Use only non-combustible or flame-resistant materials to trim a tree. Never put lit candles on a tree or near it unattended and within reach of children. Battery-operated flameless candles are a popular and safe alternative.

Lights that won’t short circuit the holidays

Lights must always conform to the standards set by an approved testing laboratory. Shorts in electrical lights are often the cause of fires, so it is imperative for one to check each set of lights every year for frayed or bare wires, broken or cracked sockets, loose connections, and excessive kinking or wear before putting them up. If possible, use LED lights that burn cool so no one gets burnt if they touch the light inadvertently.

For outdoor lights and decorations, use only firm supports like insulated staples or hooks to hold strings in place. Also make sure to fasten the lights securely to trees, walls or other firm supports to protect the lights from wind damage.

A common oversight is overloading electrical outlets. Do not link more than three light strands per single extension cord, unless the directions indicate it is safe.  More importantly, never leave holiday lights on unattended.

Have an emergency escape plan

Fire escape planning is imperative for every home or business owner, most especially during the holiday season. Inspect all possible exits and escape routes in the home or shop, and keep these exits clear at all times. Select an outdoor meeting place like a nearby building a safe distance from the building, where companions can meet after they have escaped. Have the phone number of the local fire department on speed dial for emergency calls.

Make sure that household or office companions understand the plan thoroughly. Put the plan to the test at least twice a year with fire drills both at night and during the day.

Year-round safety with Bosch Security Systems

For fire-safety all year round — not just for the holidays — Bosch, the leading global supplier of technology and services, extends its Bosch Advantage Line with a fire alarm systems portfolio — a new affordable easy-to-use range for higher safety in small installations.

The Bosch Advantage Line covers all security needs across video systems, fire alarm systems and public address systems, including analog and digital CCTV cameras and video recorders. It has smoke detectors and fire alarms to suit homes, schools and commercial or retail establishments that can effectively prevent fire and protect life.

With more than 80 years of experience in professional Fire Alarm Systems and a multitude of successful installations worldwide, Bosch proudly offers a wide range of security, safety, communications and sound solutions that are relied upon every day in facilities, venues, schools and homes around the world.

For more information, visit www.boschsecurity.asia.