The holidays are among us! While we decorate our homes and spend time with loved ones, keep these safety tips in mind to avoid any accidents.

 

Lights – Set lights on timers to automatically turn off to prevent forgetting about them. When using strands of lights to decorate a Christmas tree, keep in mind that as the holiday progresses, your tree may begin to dry out. Leaving lights on for too long heating up dry branches could pose a potential fire hazard so keep an eye on your tree or anywhere else you have lights in contact with other items.

 

Candles – Candles help set the mood with soft lighting and often a festive scent. But if you have small children over or candles set next to highly flammable material, forgoing the candles is your best bet. Better to prevent fires or injuries than having candles lit.

 

Wrapping Paper and Ribbon – While wrapping paper and ribbon will likely cover much of your home and gifts, remember this is a choking hazard. Not only can children get their hands on this easily but also your pets! Consider using different material or waiting to put out gifts. Never leave children unattended around these choking hazards.

 

Stoves and Ovens – We use our stoves and ovens at full capacity during the holidays. From baking to preparing family meals, not only is your home filled with delicious aromas, but one of the most dangerous appliances is constantly in use. Keep this in mind when children are running around or your kitchen is full. It is far too easy to accidentally touch a still-hot burner or trip over an oven door.

 

Outdoors – Maybe your hometown gets buckets of snow spilled on it regularly during this season or perhaps rain is more common. Either way, remember inclement weather creates safety hazards. From slick pathways to limited visibility to things falling, be safe when outdoors. Clear space for the annual family touch football game, remove any tripping hazards for guests coming to your home, and make sure to bundle up for the cold weather!