File:Martin Luther King, Jr - NARA - 559202.tifAre you looking for an educational family event this weekend in honor of Martin Luther King Jr.?  This Sunday, January 15th, from 5:00 PM to 7:00 PM at Hemming Plaza, you can enjoy an honorable birthday celebration in honor of Mr. King.  There will be poetry readings and a candlelight vigil at Hemming Plaza across from Jacksonville’s City Hall at 117 W. Duval St.

If you would like more details regarding this honorable event, you can view the actual event flier at Occupy Jax.

Source: Jacksonville Events

Image: Wikimedia Commons

File:Christmas lights 2.jpgThanksgiving has past and now Christmas is just around the corner.  With that said you have probably seen Christmas decorations beginning to pop up and maybe earlier than usual.  Thinking of putting Christmas lights up on your home and shrubbery?  Before you do, take a look at these Christmas lights safety tips.  It will help you avoid unwanted accidents and injuries.

Safety Tips for Christmas Lighting

  • Be sure you string up Christmas lights that have been thoroughly tested.  Replace broken bulbs, etc.  The best kinds of lights are usually UL or ETL.
  • Using mini lights is safer than the larger bulbs.  The cooler burning mini’s are great.
  • Be sure to only use Christmas lights that have fuses in the plugs.
  • If any of the lights are damaged, it’s best to toss them out and buy a new string of lights.
  • Never hang lights on any metal surfaces.  This can cause a person to get an electric shock.
  • When purchasing Christmas lights, be sure the package says they are for outdoor, indoor or both.
  • Properly use extension cords and never overload them.
  • Do not string lights near any power lines that may be near your home.
  • Properly run the string of lights through hooks or be sure they are secured by nails or insulated holders.
  • Always be sure to turn off your Christmas lights before you go to bed or leave your home for several hours at a time.
  • Do not pull on Christmas lights when taking them down.  You could fray them.  Also store them loosely for the same reason.

Decorating your home for the Holidays is a fun and exciting experience for the whole family but be sure to follow these safety tips.  You want to continue your Holiday joys without any hazards and problems.

Source: About

Image: Wikimedia Commons