‘Tis the season to be jolly, as the saying goes. The holidays are gaining momentum everywhere, including right here in beautiful Nova Scotia. For many, the holiday season is a time to decorate their homes, enjoy festive gatherings, or travel to visit families. So, we’ve curated several top tips to keep you, your family, and your home safe this holiday season.
Decorating and Electrical Safety for the Holidays.
For many Nova Scotians, a holiday tradition includes decorating their home inside and out. Here are a few smart safety tips to keep in mind.
- Keep your natural tree at least 3 feet from heat sources (fireplaces, vents, radiators) and water it daily; use a sturdy stand.
- Don’t overload extension cords or outlets by plugging in too many decorations – this can cause overheating or blow the circuit. Don’t run extension cords under carpets or through doorways, where they can be damaged and be at risk of overheating.
- Never remove the third prong from plugs; it is the grounding pin and helps prevent shock in the event of electrical equipment failure.
- Indoor lights, as the label states, are intended for indoor use only. Outdoor lights are designed to work in colder weather. Additionally, ensure your outdoor plug connections are above ground, away from water, and plugged into ground-fault-protected outlets.
- Blow out all candles before bed or leaving; use battery-operated ones if possible; keep flammable items away from heat sources.
- Be responsible with ladders – inside and out. Never climb ladders when you’re alone, and make sure it is fully stable before you take that first step up.
Holiday Home Security, Especially When You Travel
Unfortunately, the holiday season comes with an increased risk of break-ins and home theft. While you’re busy enjoying holiday events, criminals are busy watching your home. Be aware of your surroundings and take note of strangers in your neighbourhood.
- Be extra careful: keep your doors locked, your garage door closed, and your windows locked.
- Do not hide the spare key in obvious places. Burglars know to look under doormats, rocks, flowerpots and above the door.
- Make it appear as if someone is always home. Leave a radio or TV on and keep a few strategically located lights on. If you travel away, even for a few days, ask a neighbour to gather any mail or package deliveries.
- Know that criminals also scan social media. Be mindful of what you post, and avoid overt references to when and where you are away from home.
If you’re looking for more savvy advice, check out our blog 8 Tips to Protect Your Home While You’re on Vacation.
Home Heating and Fire Safety for Christmas and Beyond.
However you plan to keep warm over the holiday, following these common-sense safety practices is especially important.
- If you have a fireplace, regardless of type, ensure it has been properly cleaned and maintained. Keep children and pets a safe distance away from the fire. Always make sure the fire is out before going to bed or leaving the house. And double-check that your home insurance is up to date and covers the use of a fireplace.
- Test all smoke alarms and carbon monoxide detectors, and ensure your fire extinguishers are in good working condition.
- When using candles, keep them away from flammable materials. Most Christmas tree fires start because of a heat source, such as a candle or heating equipment, being too close. When you leave the house or the room, always blow out candles – candles should always be burning in sight.
- Have a qualified professional perform an annual maintenance check of your furnace and venting system before the holidays to avoid any unexpected system failures.
- If you use a space heater, do not plug it into an extension cord or power bar. Plug it directly into the wall outlet. Always turn it off when you leave the room.
General Home Safety Tips.
- When cooking on your stove top, it’s smart to stay in the kitchen and keep oven mitts and towels away from flames or stove elements.
- If you host a house party, keep hallways and stairs clear for guests, and clear snow/ice from walkways.
- Always keep small children and pets away from hot stoves and open flames. A pot handle hanging over the stove could result in a serious accident.
Whether it is the holidays or any time of year, our Bauld Insurance Advisors are here to help. If you want to learn more about how your home insurance or tenant insurance policy could protect you, your home and its contents, contact us and we’ll help you Be Well Protected.
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