Tagbilaran City -- With Christmas season now filling the air, the Bureau of Fire Protection will issue an advisory warning the public on irresponsible use of Christmas lights and lanterns.

Fire Marshall Nonilo Acero made this statement as Christmas lights are now seen in some houses and business establishments.

According to Acero, irresponsible use of these lights could cause fire and therefore damage to properties and even lives.

He cited the incident in the residence of House Speaker Jose De Venecia that caused the life of his daughter last year.

Although there are some who wish to celebrate the season with lights and lanterns, he warned them not to use these lights the whole day. Prolonged use could cause short circuits. He then advised to regulate its use, in order to lessen its risks as well as save on electricity. Never leave this lights unattended, he added.

He also warned the public against overloading and use of octopus connections and buying sub-standard series lights.

He will also deploy fire trucks to roam around the city on these days, as well as conduct information dissemination to prevent fire.

We should all be responsible users of these lights and wire connections, so that we can both enjoy and have a meaningful Christmas, the Fire Marshall stressed.