The holiday season is a time for joy, gatherings, and festivities, but it’s also a time when homeowners need to be extra vigilant about safety. From increased travel to holiday decorations and winter weather hazards, there are countless ways your home could be at risk. As a homeowner, staying prepared and proactive can make all the difference. Here’s your ultimate holiday safety guide to keep your property—and your loved ones—safe this season.
1. Secure Your Home While Traveling
If you’re planning to spend the holidays away from home, ensure your property remains secure. Use timers to turn lights on and off to give the impression someone is home. Double-check that all doors and windows are locked before you leave, and consider installing a home security system if you don’t already have one. Avoid posting your travel plans on social media—sharing too much information could make your home a target for burglars.
2. Prevent Holiday Fires
Nothing sets the holiday mood like festive lights and a glowing fireplace, but these can also be fire hazards. Water your live Christmas tree regularly to prevent it from drying out, and keep it away from heat sources like radiators and candles. Inspect your holiday lights for frayed wires or damaged bulbs, and never overload electrical outlets. Always extinguish candles and turn off holiday lights before going to bed or leaving the house.
3. Winterize Your Home
Winter weather can wreak havoc on your property if you’re not prepared. To prevent frozen pipes, insulate exposed pipes and leave faucets dripping slightly during extremely cold weather. Make sure your gutters are clear to avoid ice dams, which can cause roof damage. If you’re hosting guests, shovel and salt your walkways to prevent slips and falls—it’s not only considerate but could save you from liability issues.
4. Protect Against Porch Pirates
Holiday gift deliveries are at an all-time high, and so are package thefts. To safeguard your deliveries, consider using a smart video doorbell or asking delivery services to leave packages in a secure location. Another option is having packages delivered to a neighbor who will be home or a secure pickup locker.
5. Make Your Home Guest-Friendly
If you’re hosting holiday parties or gatherings, create a safe and welcoming environment for everyone. Secure loose rugs and cords to avoid tripping hazards. Designate safe spaces for kids and pets, away from hot stoves, sharp utensils, or fragile decorations. Don’t forget to provide ample parking instructions to prevent confusion or accidents.
A Safe Holiday is a Happy Holiday
As you celebrate this season, a little extra attention to home safety can go a long way. Taking these steps not only ensures your home remains a warm and secure haven but also preserves its value as an investment.
Keep your home—and your holidays—stress-free and safe this season. Stay prepared, and let the celebrations begin!