Festive & Secure: 10 Essential Holiday Home Safety Tips

Deck the Halls Safely: Holiday Home Safety Tips

As you prepare to decorate your home for the holidays, it’s essential to keep safety in mind. To help ensure a happy and safe holiday season, we’ve compiled some tips from Florida Realtors that can guide you through the process.

1. Choose Fire-Resistant Decorations

Opt for decorations made from fire-resistant materials, such as artificial trees, garlands, and tree skirts. Check the packaging to ensure they are made from safe materials.

2. Keep Live Trees Watered

If you prefer a live tree, remember to water it daily so the needles stay moist and are less likely to catch fire. Some plant-food products can extend a tree’s life, which may help.

3. Light Up Safely

Illuminate holiday lights only when an adult is home and awake. This can help prevent potential fires caused by unattended lights.

4. Inspect Electrical Decorations

Check electrical decorations to ensure they’re in good condition. Replace any decorations with frayed wires, exposed wires, or loose connections. When buying new lights, use products approved by a testing agency, such as UL Solutions.

5. Position Extension Cords Safely

Place extension cords out of the normal traffic path and avoid placing furniture on them. This can help prevent accidents and potential fires.

6. Burn Candles Responsibly

Only burn candles when an adult is present. Leave plenty of space between candles and overhead cabinets, use a large candleholder to contain dripping wax, and move nearby items that could ignite. Carefully extinguish the flame when leaving the room and always keep matches and lighters out of children’s reach.

7. Dispose of Wrapping Paper and Ribbons Properly

After opening gifts, discard wrapping paper and ribbons in a metal garbage can. Excess paper can increase the speed at which a fire spreads in the event of a household fire.

8. Install Smoke Detectors and Carbon Monoxide Detectors

If your home doesn’t have smoke detectors, now is the time to install them. If you already have smoke detectors, check the batteries and replace them if you’re unsure of their age. Install at least two battery-operated smoke detectors and a carbon monoxide detector to ensure your home is protected.

9. Have a Working Fire Extinguisher

Make sure you have a fire extinguisher in working order, preferably one that will put out all types of fires, including electrical and grease fires. Ensure family members know how to use the extinguisher and keep it in an easily accessible place.

10. Plan Escape Routes

Discuss escape routes with your family and choose alternate routes in case a preferred exit, such as the front door, is blocked.

Increased home safety is a holiday gift everyone can enjoy. By following these tips, you can create a festive and secure environment for your family and friends during the holiday season.

Orginal article: Link To Article – provided by Kansas City Realtors