Christmas is generally thought to be a happy time of year. Accidents, however, can take the fun out of the holiday. Understanding what risks surround the holiday is the best way to keep them from happening. With a little common sense and due diligence, you can keep your holidays happy and your family safe.
Be Mindful of Your Tree
Be mindful of your tree, especially if you choose to have a real one. Always maintain sufficient water in the base to keep the tree and all of its branches adequately hydrated. If not, the heat from the lights could cause a fire. It’s also a good idea to thoroughly check each strand of lights to ensure no bare wires can spark and set the tree on fire. Be careful when you cut the branches and ensure that the tree is placed securely to minimize the risk of accidents.
Monitor Your Lights
Carefully monitor all of your Christmas lights. Check each strand for bulbs that need to be replaced and bare wires. If you plan on hanging your lights outside, check your ladder to ensure that it is sturdy enough to hold you while you are reaching out and putting the lights on the hooks. Don’t overuse extension cords. Instead, use surge protectors whenever possible. Be careful not to overload your outlets with too many strands of lights. Watch out for frayed and damaged wires.
Take Care of Your Candles
Candles are a part of the holiday season. If you choose to use candles as decorations throughout your home, keep a close eye on them at all times. Never leave a lit candle unattended. A few seconds is all it takes for a candle to set a curtain or other material on fire. If you choose to burn candles, make sure to put them on a sturdy surface, removing any flammable materials that may be nearby. Remove any decorations that may have inflammable parts or pieces that may get too hot and drop off. Never place candles on Christmas trees or electrical gadgets.
Kitchen and Cooking Hazards
Many people spend hours in the kitchen cooking their family’s favorite holiday dishes. Keep knives and hot pans away from small children. Always put the handles of your pots and pans toward the center of the stove while you are cooking. Clean up spills as soon as they occur and always be mindful when small children try to reach in and grab a bite of food. Make sure that your kitchen remains a happy place by minimizing cooking hazards.
Finally, once you are done preparing your home for Christmas, make sure that your house is clutter-free before the celebrations begin to keep your house clean and avoid any mishaps.
Protect your family and your home by following these safety tips. If you are interested in learning more about your homeowners’ insurance and what Christmas hazards it covers, contact the experts at Scautub Agency in Scotia, New York. We are ready to help with the insurance coverage you need.