The holidays are a time for our homes to feel warm and festive. Equally important though, is that our home is safe. Especially in the colder months, there are more hazards that can pop up. As long as these are on your radar and you’ve taken the steps to keep things safe, you shouldn’t have any trouble. Here are some things you might want to consider:

Space Heaters

Maybe you have one extra chilly room, or perhaps you’re opting to heat the space you’re in all day instead of the entire house. Whatever the case, many homeowners resort to a space heater from time to time. These definitely can pose a fire hazard, so it’s important to set them up properly and never to leave them unattended. Ensure your space heater is plugged directly into the wall and that it’s not near any furniture or other objects in the room.

Fireplaces

It can be tempting to light a fire on the first cold day, but if you haven’t had your chimney inspected, you could be putting your home at risk for major damage. Keep this item on your annual maintenance list so that when the cold hits, you’re confident that your fireplace and chimney are ready to go.

Decorations

Outdoor lights are a fun way to brighten up the exterior, especially during these shorter days. It’s a good idea to inspect your lights before hanging them to ensure there are no broken lights or fraying cords that could cause problems. The same is true for indoor decorations. Candles are another decorative item that can add to the holiday atmosphere, but just be sure you don’t leave them unattended.

Be Prepared

Homeowners don’t need to stress about the safety of their home during the holiday as long as they’re aware of potential risks and ready to field them. Being prepared is key. Is your fire extinguisher easily accessible? Does everyone in the house know where it is and how to use it? Making sure the whole family is prepared can help keep everyone safe.

Do you have any additional holiday safety tips you use in your own home? Please share them with us!