The holiday season is a time for joy, celebration, and often travel to visit loved ones. Amid the
excitement, it’s easy to overlook some key home safety measures. Whether you’re staying in or
heading out of town, these four tips will help keep your holidays safe, festive, and stress-free.
- Make It Look Like Someone’s Home
If you’re traveling, creating the illusion that someone’s home is one of the most effective ways to
deter burglars:- Set up smart lighting: Use timers or smart plugs to turn lights on and off at random intervals. Outdoor motion-sensor lights can also be a great deterrent.
- Hold your mail: Pause mail delivery or ask a neighbour to collect packages and newspapers to avoid signals of an empty house.
- Secure all entry points: Double-check locks on windows and doors. Consider upgrading with deadbolts or window security film for added peace of mind.
- Use Space Heaters Safely
Space heaters can warm up your home, but they’re also a leading cause of winter fires. Follow
these safety tips:- Maintain a safe distance: Keep heaters at least three feet away from flammable items
like curtains, bedding, or holiday decorations. - Turn them off: Always turn off heaters when you leave the room or go to bed.
- Choose wisely: Opt for models with safety features like automatic shut-off and tip-over
protection.
- Maintain a safe distance: Keep heaters at least three feet away from flammable items
- Avoid Holiday Electrical Hazards
Holiday decorations can strain your electrical system, but a few precautions can prevent
problems:- Use outlets wisely: Avoid overloading a single outlet with multiple cords. Spread
decorations across circuits. - Inspect your decorations: Check for frayed wires or damaged bulbs before plugging in.
- Upgrade to LED lights: They’re energy-efficient, produce less heat, and reduce the risk
of fire.
- Use outlets wisely: Avoid overloading a single outlet with multiple cords. Spread
- Plan for Emergencies
Whether you’re home or away, being prepared is key to avoiding seasonal mishaps:
- Check smoke alarms: Test all alarms and replace batteries if needed.
- Protect your pipes: If you’re traveling to a colder climate, set your home’s thermostat to
at least 55°F to prevent freezing. - Involve a neighbor: Share your travel plans with a trusted neighbor and provide
emergency contact information.
A Safe Holiday is a Happy Holiday
By taking these simple steps, you can relax and enjoy the season knowing your home is secure.
Whether you’re staying cozy by the fire or celebrating out of town, a little preparation goes a
long way toward a worry-free holiday.
Happy holidays and stay safe!
