As the holiday season approaches, we look forward to filling our homes with festive decorations and gathering with loved ones over delicious meals. However, amidst the hustle and bustle of the season, it is important to keep in mind the increased risk of fire and other accidents.
We all know the saying “there’s no place like home for the holidays,” which is why the advisors at South Carolina Federal Insurance Solutions want to remind you to protect your home against seasonal safety hazards. Get started by reviewing these simple tips:
Practice caution with Christmas trees.
U.S. fire departments respond to an estimated average of 160 home fires per year that begin with the ignition of Christmas trees, resulting in $12 million in property damage.1 Use the following tips to enjoy your Christmas tree safely.
- Position your tree so that it is not blocking any exits from your home. Make sure that it is several feet away from candles, fireplaces, radiators or other heat sources, and out of reach from pets.
- Have a steady supply of water to keep the tree hydrated. Remember, trees are EXTREMELY flammable when dry.
- Dispose of your tree before it dries out and becomes a fire hazard in your home. Check with your city to see if local sanitation services offer curbside pickup.
Prioritize safety when decorating with lights.
Decorative lights can make any home feel festive for the holidays. Be sure to take appropriate safety measures when hanging lights indoors or outdoors this season.
- Select lights that have been safety tested and only use extension cords that are rated to carry the electrical loads connected to them.
- Inspect your light strands for damage and replace any that are not in good shape.
- Turn off all lights and blow out all candles before going to sleep or leaving the house.
- Make sure lights are unplugged before changing bulbs.
Keep your kitchen safe.
Unfortunately, entertaining family and friends in your home increases the risk of kitchen fires around the holidays. Keep kitchen safety top of mind with the following tips.
- Unplug appliances such as air fryers, warming trays, and slow cookers when they are not in use.
- Never leave food, grease, or oils cooking on the stove top without supervision.
- Always keep children and pets at least three feet away from the stove while it is in use.
- Make sure all smoke and carbon monoxide alarms are working by performing regular testing and changing the batteries twice a year.
- Keep a fire extinguisher in or near your kitchen in case of emergency. Check it regularly to ensure it is fully charged.
Despite exercising caution, accidents can happen. An annual review with your Insurance Solutions advisor can help you determine if you have enough coverage to protect your property and possessions in the event of an emergency. Contact us today to review your coverage so you can celebrate the season with peace of mind.
1https://www.nfpa.org/News-and-Research/Data-research-and-tools/US-Fire-Problem/Christmas-tree-fires
