Top Ten Tips for a Safe and Happy Holiday Season

We all hear the stories about folks who suffer injuries and property damage during the holiday season. It’s undoubtedly the worst time of the year for accidents to happen, especially accidents that could have been prevented by following some logical safety tips that are offered every year as a result of accidents that took place during the prior year’s holidays.

1. Inspect instead of Expect

Always inspect electrical decorations (even new ones) for damage before you plug them into an electrical outlet. Cracked, damaged, or loose connections can easily start a fire or cause a dangerous shock.

2. Never Overload

A common cause of holiday electrical fires typically results from overloaded electrical outlets and faulty wires. Never plug more than one high-wattage appliance or decoration into an outlet.

3. Stringing Lights Together

Stringing more than three strands of lights together may cause a tripped breaker and can also lead to a fire, especially if the lights are more than a few years old.

4. Keep Trees Fresh and Green

Dried out Christmas trees is a fire waiting to happen. Keep them watered and fresh.

5. Use Batteries

Use only battery-operated candles. The NFPA reports that lit candles start almost half of home decoration fires each year. READ MORE