(NAPS)-The post-holiday period is a time to relax, kick back and let your hair down - but not your guard, especially if you have children.

The Electrical Safety Foundation International suggests these ideas to help start your new year safely:

• Use the gripping area of the plug when unplugging lights and appliances. Yanking or tugging on the cord could damage the wires and insulation, possibly leading to an electrical shock or fire.
• Separate outdoor from indoor decorations. Label them accordingly.
• Discard broken or faulty lights.
• Store decorations away from children, pets and water.
• Make sure all electrical lights, toys and appliances bear the seal of a nationally recognized certification agency, such as CSA, Intertek Testing Services or Underwriters Laboratories.
• Don't allow your children to use electrical toys near water and make sure they know that water and electricity never mix. Electrical toys can become a shock hazard if they are misused.
• Send warranty and product registration forms to manufacturers. That way, they can notify you promptly in case of a recall.
• Post-holiday sales are a great time to purchase fire extinguishers and smoke detectors.

For more information, send a 60¢ stamped, self-addressed No. 10 (business size) envelope to Electrical Safety Foundation International, 1300 North 17th St., #1847, Rosslyn, VA 22209.