Christmas is quickly approaching. Your home is likely filled with holiday lights and other decorations as you prepare for the big day. Although holiday decor is festive and fun, they can also be a fire hazard. Keep these home safety tips for holiday decorations in mind to ensure a safe holiday season for you and your family.
Check Electrical Requirements
Do you remember the scene from A Christmas Story where the lights went out because too many string lights were interconnected and plugged into a single outlet? Yes, that was somewhat of a Hollywood exaggeration,… but it’s not too far from reality. We often plug too many things into a single outlet or overuse extension cords. Be sure to check manufacturer’s instructions on the use of extension cords and how many strings of lights you should actually interconnect. Improper usage could lead to a made for tv disaster, which would certainly ruin your holiday fun.
Keep Things Out of Reach
If you have children or pets, you know it takes but one second for them to get into something they shouldn’t. This includes electrical wires and breakable or sharp holiday decor. Play it safe and keep things out of their reach. String lights high rather than low. Protect electrical wires and outlets. The best approach is to get on your hands and knees and pretend to be a kid or pet. Crawl around the room and see what you notice and can reach. By viewing the home and holiday decor from their perspective, you may notice some safety hazards that need addressing.
Remember Tree Safety
Your Christmas tree is probably the most dangerous of all your holiday decor. The first thing to remember is to keep your tree hydrated! An under-watered tree will quickly dry and become a huge fire hazard. Secondly, keep your tree away from flammable objects such as fireplaces, space heaters, and candles. Lastly, avoid leaving tree lights lit when you are out of your home. Although they are very low wattage, anything electrical is a potential hazard that you should keep your eye one.
Summary of Home Safety Tips for Holiday Decorations
At this time of year, we all get busy and distracted. Home safety tips for holiday decorations is probably the least thing on your mind, but please do take a moment to consider it. After all, we would hate to see your holidays ruined by a fire or trip to the hospital. We wish you and your family a happy and safe holiday!
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