Holidays Without the Havoc: Safety Tips for Hosting Your Next Holiday Event
Article Highlights:
- From properly securing festive décor to cooking your holiday dinner, these safety tips can help you minimize the risk of creating fire hazards while hosting your next holiday event.
- Learn how to create a safe environment for guests of all ages, including pets and children.
- If your guests are drinking or smoking, ensure they get home safely with the following recommendations.
If your holidays look anything like the Griswolds’, your home is probably buzzing with lights, laughter, and a little chaos. That’s why Morse, of course, put together this list of safety tips to help you host a festive, stress-free celebration. From decorating and cooking to clearing snowy driveways, these simple reminders can help you prevent accidents, protect your home, and keep this season merry and bright.
Deck the Halls – But Safely!
If you’re decorating your home in preparation for holiday gatherings and, like Clark, want 25,000 twinkle lights on your house, remember that safety is just as important as style. Electrical fires are one of the leading causes of holiday claims, and these tips can help you minimize risks to both you and your home while decorating.
- Avoid overloading extension cords or power strips. Instead, use surge protectors or specialized power stakes that are rated for winter use, which can help safeguard your home and decorations from electrical damage.
- Use ladders carefully, making sure they’re on level ground and locked into place. Whether you’re hanging lights or topping your tree, this will help keep you steady.
- Secure your decorations properly. Do not make the same mistake as Clark and use staples to fasten your holiday lights. Puncturing electrical cords can shock you and create a fire hazard. Instead, use plastic clips, gutter hooks, or CommandTM hooks designed for outdoor use.
‘Tis the Season to Shovel
The last thing Aunt Bethany and Uncle Lewis need is a snowy hike to reach your front door. Keep the main pathways to your house safe and accessible for guests of all ages since slip-and-fall accidents are one of the most common winter home insurance claims.
- Clear your driveway, walkways, and steps before guests arrive to prevent slips and falls.
- Lay salt or sand on icy patches for extra traction.
- Turn on exterior lights so pathways are well-lit and guests can clearly spot icy areas.
Pet-Proof & Child-Proof Your Home
You’re sure to have a very merry event if Snot the Rottweiler, Aunt Bethany’s cat, or curious kids like Rocky and Ruby Sue are on your guest list. Just be sure to create an environment that’s friendly for both animals and small children to proactively avoid any accidents or unexpected claims.
- Secure wires and electrical cords. This will prevent children from tripping and decorations from tipping. This will also ensure electrical cords won’t be accessible to pets looking for a chew toy, which, as the Griswolds know, can lead to singed furniture or harm to your pet.
- Keep candles out of reach of pets and children. They could easily be knocked over and start a fire. Instead, use LED candles or place open flames on high surfaces.
- Set up safe zones. Blocking off designated areas with baby gates will allow children to play or pets to relax in a quiet space away from potential hazards.
Avoid Kitchen Catastrophes
Whether you’re a seasoned cook or letting Catherine and Ellen take charge of the turkey, remember these kitchen safety tips to prevent anything from going up in smoke.
- Keep an eye on the oven. Don’t get distracted by guests. Always stay nearby while food is cooking and set timers to prevent accidental fires.
- Move flammable items away from the stove. This includes towels, washcloths, oven mitts, loose clothing, and cleaning products.
- Turn pot handles inward so they aren’t accidentally bumped or knocked over.
Drink and Smoke Responsibly
If your guests are enjoying their spiked eggnog as much as Cousin Eddie or puffing on cigars like Uncle Lewis, a little planning can help keep the evening merry and mishap-free. As the host, you could be held responsible if impaired guests drive home, so take these steps to keep everyone safe.
- Serve mocktails. These non-alcoholic alternatives allow guests to enjoy a social beverage without the risk of intoxication.
- Serve plenty of food. A full stomach can help guests avoid getting drunk too quickly.
- Encourage rideshares. Uber, Lyft, or taxis are great options for safe transportation if guests drink or smoke too much.
- Offer overnight stays. If a guest isn’t in a condition to drive, encourage them to stay the night or help them arrange safe accommodations nearby.
Morse, Of Course, Wishes You Safe and Happy Holidays!
The holidays are a time for making memories with family and friends. While the Griswolds might be known for holiday chaos, your celebrations don’t have to be. Taking a few simple precautions can keep your gatherings safe and enjoyable for everyone.
If you have questions about your home insurance coverage before the holiday season gets underway, connect with your local Morse Insurance agent. A member of our team would always be happy to help you review your policy if you’d like a quick refresher.