Deck the Halls Safely: Essential Holiday Decoration Tips to Protect Your Home

11/22/2024 (Permalink)

Follow these tips to decorate safely for the holidays

The holiday season is a time for joy, celebration, and decking the halls with festive decorations. However, while decorating brings us warmth and cheer, it’s important to prioritize safety to prevent unexpected accidents or disasters. At SERVPRO of Howell, Wall, Spring Lake, Asbury Park, we’ve seen how small oversights during the holiday season can lead to significant damages. Follow these essential tips to ensure your holidays are as safe as they are bright.

Choose Decorations Wisely

When selecting holiday decorations, opt for items that are flame-resistant or flame-retardant. Always check the labels to ensure your garlands, tinsel, and other adornments are safe. If you’re using electrical lights, inspect the cords for fraying or exposed wires before hanging them. Damaged cords are a common cause of fires during the holiday season. SERVPRO® recommends always following manufacturer guidelines when setting up your holiday décor to ensure safety.

Tree Safety

For those opting for a live Christmas tree, keeping it well-watered is crucial. Dry trees are a major fire hazard, as they can ignite and burn quickly. Ensure your tree is placed at least three feet away from heat sources like fireplaces, radiators, and space heaters. If you prefer an artificial tree, check that it is labeled as flame-resistant. SERVPRO of Howell, Wall, Spring Lake, Asbury Park stresses the importance of monitoring lights and decorations on your tree to avoid electrical mishaps.

Be Mindful of Candles

Candles can add a cozy and festive ambiance, but they can also pose a fire risk. Always place candles on a sturdy surface and away from flammable items like curtains or holiday decorations. Never leave them unattended or within the reach of children or pets. For a safer option, consider battery-operated candles that provide the same warm glow without the risk.

Avoid Overloading Electrical Outlets

It’s easy to get carried away with holiday lights, but overloading electrical outlets can lead to overheating and even fires. Use power strips with surge protectors and avoid connecting too many light strands together. SERVPRO® encourages homeowners to use LED lights, which are more energy-efficient and produce less heat, reducing the risk of fire.

Test Your Smoke Alarms

Before the festivities begin, take a moment to test your smoke alarms and replace any batteries if necessary. A working smoke alarm can be a lifesaver in the event of an accident. At SERVPRO of Howell, Wall, Spring Lake, Asbury Park, we’ve witnessed how early detection can significantly minimize damage and keep families safe.

Keep an Eye on Your Kitchen

The holidays often bring a flurry of cooking and baking, which means your kitchen will be a hub of activity. Never leave cooking unattended, and always turn pot handles inward to prevent accidents. Grease fires can happen in seconds, so keep a fire extinguisher handy and know how to use it.

Have a Plan in Place

Despite all precautions, accidents can still happen. That’s why it’s important to have an emergency plan in place. Make sure everyone in your household knows the evacuation routes and has access to emergency contacts. SERVPRO of Howell, Wall, Spring Lake, Asbury Park is always here to help in case of fire or water damage, providing expert restoration services to get your home back to normal as quickly as possible.

Enjoy the Holidays Safely

At SERVPRO®, we know the holidays are a time to create lasting memories with your loved ones. By following these simple yet effective safety tips, you can ensure that your celebrations remain joyful and free of unexpected mishaps. Should disaster strike, remember that SERVPRO of Howell, Wall, Spring Lake, Asbury Park is just a call away to assist with professional restoration services. Stay safe, and have a happy holiday season!