Tips for a Safe and Happy Holiday Season
December 2, 2022
Holidays are a great time to entertain, host events, or visit family. While safety may not be the first thing that comes to mind when planning events and gatherings, a little preparation can help protect the things that matter most and make your home safer and more accessible for family and other guests.
Each year, over 156,000 fires occur during the holiday season.
| • | One out of three home fires begin in the kitchen — more than any other place in the home. Regardless of whether you’ve catered or are cooking a feast yourself, be sure to always keep alert for fires and keep a fire extinguisher close by. |
| • | A crackling fire in the fireplace can be an easy, cozy way to add ambiance to your home. However, fireplaces, chimneys, and other heating-related equipment are also responsible for nearly 50,000 fires every year.2 Make sure to dispose of fireplace ashes in a metal container with a tight-fitting lid after they’ve fully cooled. |
Protect your art and other valuables while entertaining.
If you’re planning to host a large holiday affair, you may need to protect your art and other precious items from increased risk of damage or theft. Here are ideas to consider:
| • | Move fragile and valuable objects out of areas where most guests will gather. |
| • | Frame artwork with protective glazing and make sure that sculptures are properly secured to their pedestals. |
| • | Place large speakers away from artwork to prevent harmful vibration exposure and avoid directing heat-generating spotlights onto the collection. |
Make sure your residence is safe and accessible.
| • | Remove leaves, snow, and ice from walkways and porches to help prevent accidents and injuries as guests arrive or leave. If the weather is cold, add salt or sand to walkways and sidewalks to help prevent slip and falls. |
| • | Walk around areas your guests will be staying and clear any sharp objects, clutter, and potential fire and tripping hazards. |
| • | Inspect steps and railings inside and outside your home and repair any noticeable damage or cracks. |
Wishing you and yours a safe and happy holiday from HBL Insurance Agency!