Holiday Safety Tips
Even in the midst of a pandemic, the holiday season is a joyous occasion and a favourite time of year for many. However, amongst the gift shopping, tree trimming, and elaborate dinners, it can be easy to forget to cross fire safety off your list. Don’t let your holidays go up in smoke and follow our simple list of fire safety tips to keep your home protected this Christmas.
1) Christmas Tree
For those who celebrate Christmas, a tree is an essential holiday decoration. Real Christmas trees can brighten up the room, smell fragrant, and create a cozy atmosphere. Unfortunately, they can also be a fire hazard. When it comes to a real Christmas tree, here are some precautions you can take to prevent fires.
- A dry Christmas tree can easily catch fire. Make sure the base is watered daily.
- Use LED lights. Not only are LED lights more cost-efficient, but they also burn cooler than traditional lights.
- Keep your Christmas tree a respectable distance from open fireplaces, candles, or other heat sources.
- Do not leave any lights or electronics on your Christmas tree plugged in while unattended. Be sure to unplug decorations on your Christmas tree every night before going to bed.
- To reduce the risk of the tree being knocked down, keep your pets or children away from the tree unattended.
2) Kitchen Fires
Turkey dinners can make us sleepy, but we must stay alert when it comes to kitchen safety. Cooking is the number one cause of home fires during the busy holiday season, but also one of the most preventable. To reduce your risk of a kitchen fire, follow these precautions:
- Never leave the kitchen unattended. If you must leave, let another person know or turn off the stove.
- If you are feeling sleepy or have consumed alcohol, don’t use the stove or stovetop.
- Keep anything that can catch fire such as oven mitts, wooden utensils, food packaging, or napkins away from your stovetop.
- Have a “kid-free zone” of at least 3 feet around the stove and areas where hot food or drink is prepared or carried.
- In the event of a grease fire, never turn on the overhead fan as this can spread the flames.
3) Electrical Fires
Part of the magic of Christmas comes from the hundreds of twinkling lights. Whether they are around the tree or your home, they are a beautiful sight. But, hidden underneath that sparkle is the fire risk that can accompany seasonal celebrations.
- Do not overload your extension cord. Extension cords should only be used as a temporary solution and never pass under rugs to minimize fire risk.
- Don’t plug-in devices with damaged power cords. If you notice that a power cord is cracked, frayed, or has come loose from its plug, you should have it repaired before plugging it in again.
During any time of year, it is essential to monitor your home for fire hazards. The holidays are no different! This year let the chestnuts be the only thing roasting on an open fire.
If you have any questions about fire safety or your insurance, please contact your Merit broker today.
