Undas only comes once every year and people find this opportunity to honor their beloved who departed from life. While it might be inevitable to steer clear from hours of travel and crowded cemeteries, being extra prepared and cautious makes a difference with how you will celebrate All Soul’s Day. Remember to put your health and safety first from the moment you plan on leaving home, to hitting the road until you visit the cemetery and return back home. 

To keep you safe and ready, remember these 20 tips for a stress-free Undas this year. 

20 Tips for a Safe and Stress-free Undas

When Leaving Home

1. Protect Your House From Burglars 

Before leaving your house, don’t forget to lock the doors and windows. If possible, ensure all possible paths are blocked in order to avoid burglars from entering. You can also ask your trusted neighbors to look after the house. 

Tip: You might want to install burglar alarms in order to alert the neighbors in cases of robbery attempts. 

2. Look Out for Possible Causes of Fires

Never leave a burning candle unattended, especially when it is placed near curtains or other flammable materials at home. Unplug all devices and appliances and make sure you close the gas valve and stove before you leave. 

3. Keep Your Valuable Items Inside the House 

Don’t leave clothes, vehicles, bicycles, and other valuable items outside the house as these will only attract thieves. Give no reason for burglars to target your home during Undas. 

4. Don’t Leave Hints of Your Trip 

Avoid placing notes outside the house indicating you will be away. Turn on battery-operated radio so as to lead people into thinking that there are homeowners inside. Also, avoid posting your real time whereabouts on social media. 

Tip: You can inform your trusted neighbor of your trip details so they’d be aware of your expected time of arrival. 

When Traveling

5. Wear Light Clothing

You might be prone to experiencing heat exhaustion if you’re having a long trip on extremely hot weather. Light fabrics will help keep your body cool. Also, don’t forget to bring fans. 

6. Anticipate the Weather 

Before hitting the road, make sure that you have checked the weather forecast and make preparations if necessary. Bring umbrellas and raincoats to keep you safe and ready in case of heavy rains and extreme heat.  

For those who will be bringing their cars:

7. Double-Check the Vehicle Condition 

Before setting off, make sure that you have ticked all the boxes of “blowbagets”: battery, light, oil, water, brakes, air, gas, engine, tire and self. Ensure that these are all in good condition so as to avoid road accidents and inconvenience. 

8. Secure Car Locks 

Another essential element that shouldn’t be neglected is the car lock. Malfunction and failure to lock it properly may pose danger on the passengers, especially if you have children on board. 

9. Bring the Necessary Driving Documents 

Your driver’s license, vehicle registration, and insurance certificate should be ready at all times. Students or children should also keep their ID’s in case they get lost. 

10. Drive Responsibly

Even the slightest ignorance of the common road safety tips and rules can lead to crash or accidents. Traffic rules and the recommended speed limits should be strictly observed. Keep distance from other vehicles and always be on the lookout for untoward accidents. Also, never drive when you’re drunk or while you’re texting. 

Note: Proper use of headlights and signal lights should be observed when driving in the dark. If the driver has poor eyesight, refrain from traveling at night. 

For those who will be taking public transportation:

11. Don’t Wear Expensive Items 

Undas is definitely not the time to flaunt your fancy pieces of jewelry and accessories. As much as possible, refrain from bringing large amounts of money as well. 

12. Be Early

Expect public transportation areas to be crowded during Undas. If you want to avoid long lines and jam packed vehicles, it is advisable to travel early in the day.  

13. Secure Your Belongings 

Commuting during holidays requires staying alert at all times. Bring only the necessary items so it would be easier for you to attend to them. Watch out for pickpockets as well. If you find someone or something suspicious, report to the authorities immediately.

When in the Cemetery

14. Refrain from Bringing Deadly Weapons 

Keep in mind that knives, blades, guns, firearms, ammunition, and other destructive objects are not allowed inside the cemetery. Anyone who is caught carrying guns, especially if unregistered, will be arrested and penalized. 

15. Avoid Gambling and Playing Loud Music 

During All Soul’s Day, most people pray and remember their dearly departed in solemnity. It would be an act of disrespect to the dead and their families if you spend the time for entertainment like playing cards and turning loud music on. 

16. Prepare Enough Food and Water

Since it will be crowded, it is necessary to bring something to eat and drink at the cemetery to keep you full and hydrated. Moreover, liquor and food sold inside the cemetery are considered illegal. 

Note: Alcoholic drinks are prohibited inside the cemetery to prevent public disturbances caused by drunk people. 

17. Be Mindful of Children 

Roaming around the cemetery might not be a good idea for kids. Remind them to stay with their guardians all the time and have them carry a form of identification with your contact details in it. 

18. Don’t Forget to Bring Flowers and Candles 

Offering sympathy flowers may not be a mandatory act but it has already become a tradition that Filipinos observe during Undas. Along with flowers, people also light candles in honor of the dead. Just remember to be cautious of where you place the candles. Keep them away from combustible materials to avoid fires. 

19. Have a First-Aid Kit Ready 

You might encounter accidents in crowded areas like the cemetery. To keep you prepared, don’t forget to bring necessary emergency treatments for wounds. Medicines for allergies, headaches and body pain shouldn’t go missing on your essentials as well. 

Tip: Know the location of first aid stations and PNP assistance booth so you can immediately report to them in case of emergencies. Also, keep a list of emergency hotlines for extra safety.

20. Clean Your Own Trash 

Garbage might be inevitable since you’d most likely be bringing food and drinks to the cemetery. Include trash bags in your must-bring list as well so it would be easier for you to clean-up. Never leave the gravesite with litters.

 

It might be inevitable to beat the so-called Undas Season Rush but you can do something to make sure you are safe and secure despite the crowd and chaos. Apart from full preparations, one thing you should never neglect is the purpose of this season. All Soul’s Day is the time for you to commemorate your deceased beloved. Make it solemn and close to your heart.

Are you looking for flowers for your lost loved ones this Undas? Visit Flower Patch Delivery now! We offer same-day delivery to keep you stress-free this season!