During the holidays, making sure loved ones are safe, happy and healthy is always #1 on everyone’s wish list. Since it’s a priority for all of us here, we put together a safety check list for you to use to prepare for the season.
- Check to make sure window treatments have enough room to close properly. Homeowners can prevent burglaries by remembering to close the windows and window coverings completely before leaving the house or going to sleep.
- Remember to keep curtains, tablecloths and bedding away from heaters. If you have small children, opt for cordless blinds or ensure cords, a strangulation hazard, are kept well out of the reach of children. Cordless Cellular Shades are a great option since they have no accessible cords; these shades are also excellent insulators so rooms will stay warm in the winter.
- Check portable heaters and electric blankets for damage or frayed cords before use. It’s best to only use one heating appliance per power outlet and always switch them off when not in use.
- Extinguish candles or any other open flames before going to bed, and always handle candles or anything with an open flame with care. It is also important to remember to store lighters and matches in a safe place far from the reach of children.
- If you plan to purchase a live holiday tree, be sure to cut 1⁄2-in. of the tree’s base to expose fresh wood (most tree retailers provide this service), and then place the tree in water. Check your water daily and place your tree far away from fireplaces, heaters and stoves.
- Avoid using old extension cords or dated incandescent lights to prevent power shortages and fires. Replace your holiday lights with LED or mini-lights. LED or/and mini-lights not only conserve energy and reduce maintenance costs, but they tend to be a safer alternative because they don’t use heat for illumination. Speaking of heat generating light sources, avoid using candles with live flame to illuminate your tree. Additionally, be sure to only use outdoor or weather resistant lights for decorating the outside of your home.
- If you have a fireplace in your home, make sure the chimney is clean and always place a screen in front of it when in use. If you plan to hang stockings on the mantle, be sure they are high out of the reach of dangerous flames and stray embers. Only use firewood in your fireplace as wrapping paper and boxes have dyes that can be dangerous when incinerated.
- Check the batteries in your smoke and carbon monoxide detectors. Experts recommend changing batteries at least twice a year to ensure your devices will work properly in the case of a fire.
- Make sure decorations and other objects are securely fastened on shelves. Always place large or heavy objects on lower shelves. In addition, be sure shelves, mirrors or frames are away from beds, couches and chairs.
- If you live in an area prone to flooding, mudslides or heavy snow fall, be sure to store sand, sandbags and shovels in a safe place should you need to use them. Use rock salt, cinder or other environmentally safe composts to keep sidewalks safe.
- Learn what kind of natural disasters could strike your region and be sure your emergency supplies are well stocked. This includes making sure you have food and water for 2 – 3 days and any medications you might need to treat an illness or injury.
- Make sure you have a plan. Talk to your family and loved ones and discuss how to prepare and respond to emergencies that could happen in your region. Decide on a place to meet outside your home should you need to evacuate and designate a non-resident emergency contact to be in touch with.
- Keep a portable gas tank, outdoor gas heaters and patio lamps stored in a safe place and always follow the manufacturer’s instructions. Portable outdoor gas heaters can cause fires if they are not properly used or stored.
- Avoid using outdoor heat sources indoors. Barbecues, grills, outdoor heaters emit hazardous gases and should only be used outside.