SMECO Tips on Safe Practices for the Holidays

The Southern Maryland Electric Cooperative offers this guide to safe practices for the holiday season.

SMECO wants you to have a safe and happy time throughout the holidays. From Thanksgiving to New Year’s Day, please keep safety in mind. Here are a few simple tips to remember:

SAFETY AROUND THE HOUSE

• Make sure your smoke alarms are working. Push the test button to ensure they are working properly.
• Make sure the Christmas tree does not block foot traffic or doorways.
• Avoid using candles; they are a primary cause of house fires during the holidays.
• Never nail, tack, or stress wiring when hanging lights; keep plugs off the ground and away from puddles and snow.

TIPS FOR SAFE DECORATING

• When adding trim to a tree, use only non-combustible or flame-resistant materials.
• For a live tree, make sure it always has an adequate amount of water, and keep it away from any heat source.
• For an artificial tree, choose one that is tested and labeled as fire resistant. Artificial trees with built-in electrical systems should have the Underwriters Laboratory (UL) label.
• Use no more than three light sets on any extension cord. Extension cords should be placed against the wall to avoid tripping hazards.
• Don’t use frayed or damaged electric cords. Never use electric lights on metallic trees.
• Turn off holiday lights when you go to bed or leave the house.

COOK SAFELY THIS SEASON

• When baking a turkey, stay in the home and check on it frequently.
• When cooking on the stovetop, stay in the kitchen and keep an eye on the food.

PROTECT CHILDREN AND PETS

• In homes with small children and pets, avoid sharp or breakable decorations.

SMECO – The Cooperative Difference

SMECO was incorporated in 1937 and is one of the 15 largest electric cooperatives in the United States with more than 170,000 member accounts in Charles County, St. Mary’s County, southern Prince George’s County, and most of Calvert County.

Electric cooperatives are shaped by the communities they serve, because co-ops are owned by their customers.  Co-op members elect the men and women who serve on the Board of Directors. Members share the responsibility of ownership by financing the cooperative’s operations, but they also share its rewards.

At the end of each year, SMECO’s margins (profits) are allocated to members’ capital credit accounts. SMECO uses its profits to invest in new construction, system improvements, and facility upgrades. The Board of Directors regularly evaluates the financial condition of the co-op and determines when members will receive a refund. Since 1937, SMECO has refunded more than $128 million.

As a cooperative, SMECO will always put its members first and be responsive, reliable, and resourceful — the power you can count on.

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The SMECO 24/7 mobile app is available at www.smeco.coop/247. To learn more about SMECO, visit their Leader Member Page.