Holiday Home Safety

The most wonderful time of the year is upon us! 
Between the holiday parties, decorating, Christmas shopping, and travel plans it is important to make sure that your home and your loved ones are safe. Check out these tips below before you set up all of your holiday decorations!

1. Let there be light!

Make sure to inspect all of your holiday lights prior to using them each year. If you find any frayed cords, cracked bulbs or loose connections, throw them away. When setting up, do not connect more than one extension cord together. Otherwise, you could potentially risk a fire in your home.

 2. Stay Hydrated!

If you are opting for a real tree this year, choose a freshly cut tree. Make sure to give your tree plenty of water and keep it far away from any candles. Dry pine needles and Christmas lights do not mix well!

3. Check the Label!

If you are buying a new artificial tree this year, make sure it is labeled as "fire resistant."

4. Chestnuts roasting on an open fire

Decorating the mantle is a must! However, always remember to remove any greens, papers or any other decorations prior to lighting a fire.

5. Do not eat!

Don't forget that poinsettias are poisonous! Keep them out of reach for pets and children.

6. Lights out!

Remember to turn off all lights and blow out candles before leaving the house or going to bed.

7. Going on Holiday?

If you have travel plans for the holidays, refrain from posting on social media that your home will be empty. Ask a trusted friend or neighbor to pick up all mail and packages for you. Holiday home burglaries are all too common. It is important that a random passerby not see a pile of mail or newspapers at your front door, making it obvious that you are out of town.

8. A quick test that could save your holiday!

Make sure to test your smoke detectors to ensure they are working property.

9. Where's the chocolate?

If you have a dog in the home, keep chocolate on high shelves. Animal hospitals report having many emergency visitors for this reason during the holidays. Make sure your kids are on the same page!

10. Old Ornaments

Keep in mind that if you have old ornaments, they may have been painted with lead paint. If you choose to display them, put them at the top of the tree so that kids and animals cannot reach them.

I hope everyone has a great holiday season!