It’s hard to find someone who doesn’t enjoy the holiday season. After all, what’s not to love? From the delicious smell of cookies baking in the oven to the glowing lights that can make your home twinkle, the season always produces an atmosphere of comfort and joy. But the holiday season isn’t without risks—especially when it comes to keeping your home warm and your family safe.
With this in mind, we thought we’d share some simple reminders and holiday safety tips for keeping your home extra safe and sound this Christmas. So, get that pen and paper ready and start making a list. (And then be sure to check it twice!)
Holiday Safety Tips for the Season
1. Be Cautious with Space Heaters
According to recent 2022 fire statistics, it is estimated that over 21,000 home fires are caused by space heaters each year. Yikes! And while it’s true that today’s space heaters are safer than ever before (thank you automatic shutoff), it is still important for homeowners to take caution when using them. Follow these tips for space heater safety.
- Keep space heaters away from high traffic areas (especially where kids and pets play)
- Place heaters on flat, low, nonflammable surfaces
- Keep space heaters at least three feet away from any curtains, furniture, or other flammable items
- Never leave space heaters unattended
- Unplug heaters when not in use
2. Keep Your Chimney Safe
A dirty, neglected chimney is a problem waiting to happen! But a quiet evening in front of the fireplace is part of many holiday traditions. So, what’s a homeowner to do? That’s easy! By following a few simple chimney safety tips, you can protect your home all season and enjoy the occasional fireside chat. Try these tips:
- Schedule an annual chimney inspection & cleaning
- Never leave a fire unattended
- Invest in a fireplace screen or glass doors to contain sparks
- Avoid using lighter fluid in the chimney
- Burn seasoned hard wood rather than soft wood
- Cap your chimney flue
- Keep chimney top free and clear of debris and branches
3. Practice Candle Safety
Candles set a festive mood and can create amazing scents to carry you through the holidays. But they are also a fire risk. If you’re a candle lover, don’t forget to:
- Keep candles three feet from anything flammable, especially Christmas decorations
- Do not leave candles unattended
- Blow candles out after each use
- Keep candles on a flat surface
- Keep candles out of reach of young children and pets
- Consider using flameless candles
4. Be Careful with Christmas Lights
Practicing proper Christmas light safety is also important. Here are some simple reminders that will keep your home protected.
- Always examine lights before displaying
- Replace older incandescent lights with energy-efficient LED lights
- Avoid using nails, staples, or tacks to attach light strings
- Keep cords dry
- Keep extension cords out of traffic paths
- Use power strips
- Use a ladder to hang lights that are high up
- Don’t put electric lights on a metal tree
- Don’t leave lights on overnight or when you leave your home
5. Enjoy Our Extra Holiday Safety Tips!
And finally, to ensure your home remains as safe as ever this season, here are some bonus holiday safety tips that will add just a little more peace of mind if you follow them properly.
- Test all smoke alarms and carbon monoxide detectors
- Don’t use outdoor grills or ovens to heat your indoor space
- Always be sure your home has adequate ventilation, especially when using space or wall heaters that use propane or gas
- Schedule a heating tune-up from ARS if you experience any heating problems
Trust ARS/Rescue Rooter for All Your Home Safety Concerns
We hope our list of holiday safety tips will give you extra peace this winter. As always, the team at ARS/Rescue Rooter hopes all our customers have a healthy, happy, holiday season. Please remember that we are only a phone call away when you need heating, cooling, or plumbing services. Call us today at 866-399-2885 to schedule your annual tune-up! Happy Holidays!
