Avoid Holiday Decorating Hazards!
The holiday season is a time for joy, festivities and, of course, decorating our homes to create a warm and festive atmosphere. While decking the halls, it’s important to keep safety in mind to avoid holiday decorating hazards and ensure a happy holiday season for everyone.
Ladder Safety
One of the most common holiday decorating hazards involves using ladders to reach high places. Whether you’re hanging lights or placing ornaments on the tree, make sure your ladder is sturdy and placed on a level surface. Always have someone spot you and avoid reaching too far to the side to prevent tipping.
Electrical Safety
Stringing lights is a favorite holiday tradition, but it can pose electrical hazards if not done carefully. Inspect light strings for frayed wires or damaged sockets, and replace any faulty bulbs promptly. Avoid overloading electrical outlets and use extension cords rated for outdoor use when decorating the exterior of your home.
Candle Caution
Candles add a cozy ambiance to holiday decorations, but they also pose a fire hazard. Keep candles away from flammable materials, never leave them unattended and consider using flameless LED candles as a safer alternative.
Tree Safety
If you have a real Christmas tree, keep it hydrated to reduce the risk of fire. Water your tree regularly and keep it away from heat sources such as fireplaces and heaters. If you opt for an artificial tree, ensure it is flame-resistant.
Decor Placement
Be mindful of where you place decorations, especially if you have young children or pets. Avoid using small decorations that could be a choking hazard and secure larger items to prevent them from toppling over.
Secure Decorations Outdoors
Wind and weather can be unpredictable, so make sure outdoor decorations are securely anchored. This includes inflatables, light displays and any other outdoor elements. Remove decorations promptly after the holidays to prevent damage from winter weather.
Poisonous Plants
Some popular holiday plants, like poinsettias and mistletoe can be toxic if ingested. Keep them out of reach of children and pets. Make sure to educate yourself about the potential risks associated with specific plants.
Proper Storage
Once the holiday season is over, store decorations properly to prevent damage and make setup easier next year. Wrap fragile items carefully, label storage containers and store them in a cool, dry place.
By taking a few precautions, you can avoid holiday decorating hazards. Keep these simple tips in mind to enjoy a season filled with joy, laughter and the warmth of a well-decorated home.
We at Cultris Security hope these holiday decorating tips are helpful and wish you and yours a safe holiday season! Contact us to discuss how we can help make your home safe and secure with a custom security system.
Image by Toni Cuenca at pexels.com
