'Tis the Season: Tips For Having Safe and Festive Holidays

As October comes to an end, we begin our march toward the most wonderful time of the year! As soon as the 31st rolls into the 1st, holiday magic seems to take over all aspects of everyday life. Stores begin setting up holiday displays, homeowners start turning their homes into holiday wonderlands, and many radio stations transition their formats to play those warm, familiar holiday songs that we all know and love - many 24/7!

If you're reading this, you're likely one of many homeowners who will be hosting social festivities over the season. While you're eating, drinking, and being merry, it's important to keep the safety of your home and your guests in mind. This month, we've compiled a few tips to help you keep your holiday season safe and festive!

Frying a Turkey

Want to try frying your holiday turkey this year? You'll need to take a few precautions to keep your home and loved ones safe. Place your fryer at least 10 feet from your home on even ground, and make sure the bird is completely thawed and dry before frying. Watch the temperature at all times, and keep a multipurpose dry-powder fire extinguisher handy in case of sudden ignition or combustion.

Flameless LED Candles

Candles are a traditional and beautiful part of any holiday display. However, open-flame candles can lead to house fires if they aren't constantly monitored. Opting for battery-operated flameless LED candles will give you the same warm glow without the risk of a fire.

Be Wary of Cords

Using extension cords to power lit holiday displays can pose many risks. Cords can be major trip hazards, so be sure to place them in low-traffic areas. Never overload your outlets or extension cords, and make sure to unplug your lights when not in use to avoid the risk of electrical fires.

Give Your Tree Something to Drink!

If you're opting for real Christmas trees, you should know they're always thirsty! Evergreens dry out quick once removed from nature, so you should constantly keep them watered. A dry tree is a dangerous tree, as it poses a huge fire hazard, especially if placed close to a source of heat (which is not advised).

Choose Fire-Resistant Decorations

Vintage heirloom decorations passed down for generations are likely a part of your holiday home displays. If they're made from paper, lace, or fabric, they can be a fire hazard. Opt to use modern fire-resistant decor as often as possible. If you prefer to use vintage decorations, keep them as far from heat sources as possible to avoid the potential for combustion.

Double-Check your Decorative Lights

Do you know why guys like Clark Griswold obsess over the bulbs in their Christmas light strands? No, it's not just to avoid the in-laws! Cracked lights, lights with frayed wires, and sockets missing bulbs increase the risk of electrical fires if you opt to use them. Check your lights as you're building your home holiday displays, and double-check for good measure! If your strands are damaged, replace them with new ones.

By following these tips, you can safely ensure that your home is the most festive on the block this holiday season! Celebrating the holidays in style should never come at the expense of the safety of your loved ones or your property. Remember, many mishaps can be avoided with proper planning and plenty of vigilance.

As always, if you have any questions about your insurance or need assistance, feel free to reach out to us. Just give us a call at 843-357-7493 and we'll be glad to help.

Happy Holidays! 

– The LW Short Insurance Team