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It’s a favorite time of year for many. Some of us are rushing to the store to pick up last-minute secret Santa gifts, some are delicately decorating gingerbread houses with loved ones, and some are curled up on the couch with a comforting cup of hot chocolate!
We understand the hustle and bustle of the holiday season, but it’s essential to prioritize safety 365 days a year. Disasters never take a holiday, so it’s best to be on your A-game this holiday season when it comes to fire safety. We’re breaking down the most common fire hazards that can pop up during the season; keep reading to learn more!
Leaving the Kitchen Unattended
Hosting for the holidays can seem like quite a task. Between planning the meal, tidying the home, and setting the table, some hosts can feel pulled in many different directions during gatherings. However, this is where many accidents can occur.
You may assume that leaving the boiling pot of potatoes unattended for a couple of minutes won’t do any harm, but you would be incorrect. Whether you or a family member decide to monitor the cooking area, make sure there are eyes on the kitchen at all times. It can be pretty easy for young ones to knock over a boiling pot or for something to catch flame in an instant.
Pro tip: Designate a kitchen monitor before the big day, so there is no confusion about who is responsible for keeping an eye on the pumpkin pie.
Avoid Flammable Decorations
You may be surprised to discover that nearly half of holiday decoration fires happen because decorations are placed too close to a heat source, according to the USFA. We understand how fun it can be to add an abundance of holiday decorations to your shopping cart, but you should think twice about the safety of your decor before it’s on display.
It’s a good rule of thumb to inspect your holiday lights each year before you throw them on the tree or hang them around the house. If you spot any pinched or frayed wires, throw the lights away!
If you’re team real Christmas tree, it’s important to remember that extra precautions will need to be taken to ensure a merry, bright, and safe holiday season. Remember to water your tree every day, especially if you have adorned it with lights. A dry tree can catch fire very quickly, so ensure yourself or a family member is refreshing the water each day.
Use Battery-Operated Candles Instead
There’s nothing quite like the comforting glow of a home filled with candles and Christmas lights. Candles can add a unique touch to your Christmas decor, but they can also pose a fire risk. Many homeowners are switching to battery-operated candles, which look and feel like real candles! Plus, you won’t have to worry about blowing out all the candles before you leave the house.
If you just can’t seem to part with flame candles, ensure they have enough ventilation and are in a stable location. The last thing you want to experience this holiday season is a knocked-over candle and a home disaster. Keep fire safety at the top of your mind as you light candles this holiday!
Fire Damage Restoration in North Highlands
If your home was recently affected by fire damage, trust our team at Good Life Construction to help restore your home to its former glory. Fire damage can be stress-inducing, but our restoration specialists are here to help with clear communication from start to finish. Give us a call at (916) 884-6132 or complete our online contact form to take the first step towards restoring your home.