Thanksgiving is upon us, which means we break out the decorations, the holiday music and begin cloaking our homes in festive lights and colors. Some people are simple with just a wreath on the door while others may think they are starring in some holiday comedy by driving up their electric bills and causing many sleepless nights for their neighbors. Then there are people who, although they go a little crazy with colorful lights and lawn ornaments, seem to attract dozens of visitors with their visual spectacle of lights and coordinated music ensembles. Wherever your preferences lie for holiday decorations, the most important thing to remember as you climb ladders, hook lights and decorate trees is to stay safe.
Here are 8 safety tips for holiday decorating to help keep you and your family safe this season.
- Always place Christmas trees away from fireplaces and radiators, and keep the stand filled with water so the needles don’t dry out too quickly.
- Always check light strings for broken or cracked sockets, frayed or bare wires and loose connections.
- Never overload extension cords
- Decorating outside? Remember to use lights specifically designed for outdoors.
- Never leave holiday lights on or candles lit when you go to bed or leave the house.
- Outdoor lights and decorations should be plugged into special circuits protected by ground fault circuit interrupters (GFCIs).
- NEVER use lighted candles on a tree! If you are using candles with a flame, then keep them at least 12 inches from anything that can burn.
- Don’t burn wrapping paper in the fireplace. A flash fire may result as wrappings ignite suddenly.
At FBinsure we specialize in helping you assess risk at the business and personal level. For a free assessment of your insurance coverage call our office and schedule an appointment with one of our Risk Management Specialists.
We wish you a happy, healthy, safe and prosperous holiday season.
From our family to yours
Happy Holidays!
