Have a merry season with these holiday safety tips!
It’s time to deck the halls and sip on a little bit of eggnog, don’t worry, we won’t tell if it is spiked! Whether we are ready or not the holiday season is officially upon us and with that comes a few safety issues we need to keep in mind to protect our family, pets, and homes. From decorations to extra household guests to baking and cooking, your home is full of fire and safety hazards that could damper even the merriest of seasons.
Here are a few holiday safety tips to keep in mind to protect your home and family.
Holiday Safety Tip #1: Trees
According to the Electrical Safety Foundation International (ESFI), on average 260 home fires begin with Christmas trees each year, which results in over $16 million in property damage. But don’t let this statistic dull your holiday spirit, you can easily avoid disaster by ensuring that your tree is properly cared for.
- Make sure to check the tree regularly for water. Some trees, especially freshly cut trees during the first week at your home, may require up to a gallon of water per day.
- Unplug the lights when you leave the house. Avoid leaving the lights plugged in overnight as well.
- Keep your tree away from heat sources. As beautiful as it may be nestled next to the fireplace, it is best to place the tree a safe distance away. This also includes heater vents in the wall and on the floor.
- Avoid overheating your tree by using lights that produce low heat. Smaller light bulbs are best
Holiday Safety Tip #2: Candles
We all love candles and during the holiday season they add an air of coziness to our homes. According to the ESFI, candles start 45% of home decoration fires and December is peak time. With just a few tips, you can keep your home cozy and safe.
- Never leave a candle unattended, even if you leave the room for five minutes, blow it out.
- Move candles away from flammable fabrics and decorations.
- Use proper candle holders that secure the candles and do no easily tip over.
- Place candles away from the reach of curious little hands.
Holiday Safety Tip #3: Holiday Decorations
Holiday decorations can cause all sorts of fire and other hazards, but by following these simple holiday safety tips, you can have the most festive and safest house on the block!
- Keep small (read: easy to put in mouth small) decorations out of the reach of kids and pets
- Make sure extension cords are out of walking paths or are secured and covered so they do not pose a tripping hazard
- Don’t overload your electrical circuits
Most importantly, we wish you all a very happy holiday season and if you are looking to move, make sure to check out our available rentals here.