Now that Thanksgiving is in the rear-view mirror, the holiday season has officially begun. Who can resist the excitement of decorating our homes to add that extra spirit as we celebrate with friends and family. While the festive spirit is contagious, it’s crucial to make sure a safety-first approach is taken when decorating to ensure a joyful and accident-free holiday season. Here are RIHI’s top seven holiday decorating safety tips:
- Inspect Lights and Cords: Before stringing lights on your tree or around your home, carefully inspect them for any frayed wires, broken bulbs, or damaged sockets. Replace any faulty lights to avoid electrical hazards, and always use extension cords rated for outdoor or indoor use as needed.
- Secure Decorations Safely: Prevent tripping hazards by securing decorations properly. Use hooks, clips, or other appropriate fasteners to secure lights and ornaments, ensuring they won’t fall or pose a risk to children and pets.
- Choose Fire-Resistant Decor: Always get fire-resistant or flame-retardant decorations to reduce the risk of fire hazards. This is particularly important for items placed near heat sources, such as fireplaces or candles.
- Water Your Tree Regularly: If you have a live Christmas tree, keep it well-hydrated to reduce the risk of it becoming a fire hazard. A well-watered tree is less likely to catch fire, providing both safety, beauty, and longevity.
- Use Caution with Candles: While candles add a warm, cozy glow to holiday décor, exercise caution when using them. Keep candles away from flammable materials, never leave them unattended, and consider using flameless LED candles as a safer alternative.
- Keep All Your Exits Clear: Ensure that holiday decorations do not obstruct doorways, windows, or emergency exits. In case of an emergency, clear exits are critical for a quick and safe evacuation.
- Take Precautions with Outdoor Decorations: If you’re decorating outside of your home, use outdoor-rated lights and decorations. Avoid overloading circuits and protect electrical connections from the elements. And always secure outdoor decorations to stay in place in windy wintery weather.
During the hustle and bustle of this year’s holiday season, taking time to prioritize safety can make all the difference. By following these seven holiday decorating safety tips from RIHI, The Home Improvement Specialist, you can create a beautifully festive and secure environment for your family and guests to enjoy the holidays to the fullest. Happy Holidays!
