Decorating is a fun way to begin getting into the holiday spirit, but between unstable ladders, questionable string lights, and wobbly Christmas trees, there is a lot that could go wrong. Holiday decorating safety is an important part of the season.

According to the US Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC), an average of 200 decorating-related injuries occur each day during the holiday season. On top of that, Christmas tree and candle-related fires result in approximately $50 million worth of property damage each year in just November and December. 

While decorating for the holidays does come with some risks, you can reduce them significantly by taking simple precautions and using common sense. Keep the following holiday decorating safety tips in mind as you adorn your home this season.

1. Secure your tree

There is likely going to be a lot of commotion in your home during the holiday season. With kids and pets in the mix, there’s a chance your Christmas tree could topple over. 

Consider anchoring your tree to the wall using a string or wire to ensure it stays in place, even if it gets jostled in the commotion.

2. Use extension cords and string lights safely

According to the Electrical Safety Foundation, extension cords are responsible for approximately 3,300 home fires each year. Always ensure you plug electrical cords into grounded sockets and use them as intended: items labeled for indoor use shouldn’t be used outdoors, as they are not sufficiently weatherproof and could be damaged by moisture. 

Over the years, cords may become frayed, leaving exposed wires which could spark a fire. Before plugging your lights in, inspect them for signs of wear and tear. If they are damaged, replace them.

A home fire alarm system will provide additional peace of mind during this time of year, but taking care to ensure your lights and extensions cords are fully intact will significantly lower the risk of any incident. 

3. Keep pets out of the way during decorating

A rambunctious pet could easily catch a paw on a loose strand of lights or upset a ladder you’re standing on and cause you to fall. Keep your pets in a separate room while you’re decorating so they can’t knock anything over. Once your feet are soundly on the floor, invite them back out to play! 

If you live alone, a medical alert system ensures you can get the help you need with just the push of a button, should you fall while decorating. 

4. Opt for LED candles

Candles certainly add a warm ambiance to your home during the holidays, but open flames increase the risk of a house fire. This year, swap your traditional candlesticks for flameless LED candles. You can leave these on for long periods without worrying about the risk of fire, and you’ll never leave the house wondering whether you forget to put the candle out! 

Holiday decorating can pose hazards, but as long as you anticipate potential dangers and exercise common sense, you can mitigate most of the risk. Contact us to learn more about how a home fire alert system can keep you safe this holiday season.

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