From winter preparation to practical precautions, these tips can help you have a safe and jolly holiday season.
Ready. Set. Snow.
If you live in an area where it could snow, it’s important to prepare an emergency winter kit for your home or vehicle. These kits should include items such as bottled water, canned food, flashlights and batteries, prescription medications, a first-aid kit and a battery-powered radio.
Traveling for the holidays?
Be prepared. Ensure your vehicle is in good running condition and get plenty of rest before getting on the road. Make sure every person in the vehicle is properly buckled up, no matter how long or short the trip.
Don’t let holidays spark trouble
Use these fire prevention tips. Place candles where they cannot be knocked down or blown over, and out of reach of children. Use a screen on the fireplace at all times when a fire is burning. Never leave candles burning or fireplaces unattended, especially when you go to bed.
Deck the halls and decorate safely
If using an artificial tree, make sure it is labeled “fire resistant.” If using a live tree, cut off about 2 inches of the trunk to expose fresh wood for better water absorption. Remember to water it and remove it from your home when it is dry.
Hide it, don’t ho-ho-show it
Out of sight is key — keep expensive jewelry, family heirlooms and other valuables hidden and secured. Lock them in a home safe or safety-deposit box or tuck them away in a discreet spot, like a closet, for protection.
Check before you check out
Don’t sign or pay for anything until you investigate deals; be especially cautious if you are being rushed. Don’t click on links from unverified sources. And always look up details on any person or “company” offering a deal.
Keep your loved ones safe
Keep potentially poisonous plants — mistletoe, holly (especially the berries), Jerusalem cherry and amaryllis — away from children and pets. Toys are age-rated for safety, not for children’s intellect and physical ability, so be sure to choose toys in the correct age range.
Stay bright and cook in sight
Cooking is the No. 1 cause of home fires and home injuries. You should not use the stove or stovetop if you are tired or have consumed alcohol. Keep anything that can catch fire away from the stovetop. Stay in the kitchen while you are cooking and turn off the stove if you must leave.
Have yourself a safe-lit season
Only use indoor lights indoors and outdoor lights outdoors. When hanging lights, choose the right ladder for the task. Never nail or tack wire when hanging lights, and keep plugs off the ground away from puddles and snow. Replace light sets that have broken or cracked sockets, frayed or bare wires, or loose connections.
Guide the sleigh and drive sober
Practice defensive driving. Designate a sober driver to ensure guests make it home safely after a holiday party.
Make Kevin proud; no home alone
You might not be home, but you don’t need to broadcast it. Use a timer for outdoor lights, such as those on your front or back porch, to come on at night while you’re away. Potential bad guys may think twice before approaching a home that appears occupied.
