Take care, celebrate responsibly

THE party season is here and so should be our attentive instinct to the many warnings associated with it.
To spice up decorations and celebrations, we now have Christmas lights that are accessible to almost anyone.
There are warnings about them as they are capable of starting fires.
Christmas lights are now a staple item when it comes to holiday decorations.
Whether hung on the house or wrapped around tree, these lights bring a warm and cosy feeling into any home.
But do not be fooled by the colouful lights.
You should confirm that the lights you are buying or have purchased are certified by PNG Power.
Two simple checks that can save you trouble are that the insulation should be thick and the plugs are standard.
If you have anything less than the Merry Christmas can turn to a gloomy one.
The message from PNG Power over this period in the past is that Christmas lights with thin insulation and substandard plugs are dangerous and can cause harm or fire.
You as a customer have the to right to ask for a certificate of approval from PNG Power Ltd to be sure you are buying Christmas lights that will not burn your house down.
The mounting of outdoor Christmas lights on trees should be checked by a certified licenced electrician before turning it on.
PNG Fire Services have always warned those using fire crackers to be mindful of the surroundings and ensure that the area has no flammable substances which can catch fire easily.
We will add the lanterns to the list also.
A sky lantern may land when the flame is still alight, making it a fire hazard
Anyway, firecrackers are deemed to be illegal items in PNG and those in possession can be charged under the Dangerous Goods Act.
While holiday decoration is all about adding fun, sparkle and warmth to a very special season, it’s important to remember that many of our favourite decorations carry the risk of fire or electrical injury if not used carefully.
As the busy holiday season rolls in, the champagne is uncorked, the wine flows and the beer is on ice which means some of the top-drinking holidays of the year are celebrated, and to say some over-indulge is an understatement.
Throughout the holidays, between family gatherings, Christmas parties, office parties and general celebration, temptation comes in many varieties from mixed drinks, wine and champagne, to drugs being available in some cases.
Soon, you find yourself drinking one, then two, three, and between four and five can find yourself in some trouble.
Drinking alcoholic beverages such as beer, wine and spirits is an enjoyable pastime that helps people to relax or unwind.
A drink to relax after a hard day, a glass over dinner and a few on a night out but when it comes to alcohol, how many of us really know how much is too much?
We all know that drunkenness and alcohol abuse are not only a public nuisance but also the basis for bigger problems in PNG such as violence in families or in the community.
Don’t let a preventable accident take the enjoyment out of your holidays.
It pays to be attentive to warnings.