Safety Tips for the Holidays, Recommendations From a Certified Home Inspector

Safety Tips for the Holidays

The following are a few tips that can keep you and your family safe while enjoying this festive season: Halloween through the New Year.

Electrical Safety

Use only Underwriters Laboratories (UL) approved lights.
Avoid overloading the connections.
Do not leave Holiday lights on while unattended inside the home.
Check all light sets prior to use.
Do not use damaged light sets or extension cords.
Replace any worn light systems.
Make sure you have a working smoke detector on every level of your home.

Christmas Tree Safety

Keep your tree away from heat sources, sparks or flames.
Choose a freshly cut tree. LIVE TREES NEED WATER! Check and refill often.
Cut a few inches off the trunk before placing in water.
When your tree becomes dry, discard it promptly.
Avoid accidents by using wire or cord to secure your tree to the wall or ceiling (this will prevent it from toppling over by small children or pets).

Holiday Candle Safety

Do Not use candles near combustible materials such as curtains, drapes, bedding and or cabinets.
Do Not leave the house with candles burning.
Do Not leave children or pets unattended with a lit candle.
Do Not use candles on a Christmas tree.
Be sure that candles are in stable holders on a flat stable surface and create a 1-foot circle of safety surrounding them.

Say No To Fireworks

Be Sure Your Main Exterior Entry Way is Well Lit to Avoid Visitor Trip Hazards