The holiday season is in full swing and no doubt you’re busy decorating, shopping, baking, and doing all sorts of holiday prep. However, it’s important to know that along with all the festive cheer and hustle and bustle comes an increased risk of accidents and mishaps around your home this season. From fire hazards to security concerns, it’s crucial to take the necessary steps to keep your home and loved ones safe.
Here are some practical tips to help ensure a safe and joyful holiday season.
1. Be Cautious with Holiday Decorations
One of the biggest risks during the holidays is the increased use of candles. If you’re using candles to create a cozy atmosphere, never leave them unattended, and keep them away from flammable materials like curtains, paper, or Christmas trees. Or better yet, consider switching to battery-operated candles for added safety. Additionally, make sure your Christmas tree is placed away from heat sources such as fireplaces, radiators, or heating vents. If you’re using a real tree, keep it watered regularly to prevent it from drying out, and make sure your tree lights are in good condition.
2. Check Your Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Detectors
Before you get into the holiday spirit, test your smoke detectors and carbon monoxide detectors to make sure they’re functioning properly. These detectors can save lives in the event of a fire or gas leak. Change the batteries if needed, and ensure that detectors are placed in key areas like the kitchen, bedrooms, and hallways.
3. Ensure Home Security
The holiday season often sees an uptick in home burglaries, as thieves know that many people are away visiting family or traveling. To protect your home, consider installing motion-activated lights around your property, particularly near entry points like doors and windows. If you’re planning to travel, ask a trusted neighbor or friend to keep an eye on your home, or consider investing in a security system with video surveillance.
4. Prepare for Winter Weather Hazards
Winter weather can bring dangerous conditions, so it’s important to take steps to prevent accidents caused by snow, ice, and freezing temperatures. Keep walkways, driveways, and steps clear of ice and snow to prevent slips and falls. Salt or sand can help provide traction, but make sure to apply it before the snow accumulates for the best results.
5. Be Mindful of Food Safety
Holiday meals are often elaborate, but food safety is key to preventing foodborne illnesses. Ensure that all meats are cooked to the appropriate internal temperatures and that leftovers are properly stored in airtight containers. When hosting large gatherings, be mindful of the “two-hour rule”: perishable foods should not be left out at room temperature for more than two hours, or one hour if the temperature is above 90°F.
6. Teach Children About Safety
The holiday season can be especially exciting for children, but it’s essential to teach them about potential hazards. Keep small decorations, such as ornaments and tinsel, out of reach of young children to avoid choking hazards. If you’re hosting a holiday party, ensure that there are no hazards like open flames, sharp objects, or small toys that could pose risks. Also, remind children to never touch electrical decorations or cords.
At Messmer Mechanical, your comfort and safety is our top priority. We urge you to follow the above precautions to reduce the risk of accidents and mishaps during the holiday season. From our family to yours, we wish you a joyful, stress-free holiday season.