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10 Holiday Safety Tips!

The holiday season is a time when busy people can become careless and vulnerable to theft and other holiday mishaps. Whether you are leaving for the holidays or spending time at home, the following tips from Pinnacle Security can help you be more careful, prepared and aware during the holiday season. Don’t let the rush and excitement of the holiday season initiate carelessness in protecting your home from disasters and potential criminals.
1. The Great Outdoors. When hanging outdoor lights, keep electrical connectors off the ground and away from metal rain gutters. Use insulated tape or plastic clips instead of metal nails or tacks to hold them in place. Choose the correct ladder for the job and always have assistance in high or hard to reach places. Never connect more than one extension cord together; instead use a single cord that is long enough to reach the outlet without stretching.
2. Lights out. Electrical fires are one of the most common factors leading to household fires during the winter months. Unplug inside Christmas lights when going to bed or leaving the house unattended as lights can short out and start a fire. Inspect new and previously used light strings, and replace them if they’re damaged or worn. Do not leave space heaters unattended or near furniture, curtains or other fabric.
3. Fresh Is Best. What’s a holiday party without a beautifully decorated tree? If your household includes a natural tree in its festivities, keep the tree watered. Along with lessening the possibility of a fire, a well watered tree helps keep its holiday pine fragrance. Typically shorts in electrical lights or open flames from candles, lighters or matches start tree fires. Dry and neglected trees can be a serious fire hazard.
4. Sound the Alarm. Check all of your smoke alarms to make sure they are functioning properly and the batteries are still good. Pinnacle smoke alarm can be tested from the main panel and the system will notify you if batteries need to be replaced. Be sure to install smoke and carbon monoxide (CO) alarms on every level of your home — especially near sleeping areas.
5. Deck the halls with care. Never use lighted candles on a tree or near other evergreens. Always use non-flammable holders, and place candles where they will not be knocked down. In homes with small children, take special care to avoid decorations that are sharp or breakable. Keep trimmings with small removable parts out of the reach of children to avoid the child swallowing or inhaling small pieces. Remove all wrapping papers, bags, paper, ribbons and bows from tree and fireplace areas after gifts are opened.
6. Off to grandmas house we go. When leaving your home, ask yourself, “Does it look like this house is empty?” If it does, do something about it. Ensure all windows and doors are locked and your system is armed before leaving your home, even for just a few minutes. When leaving home for an extended time, have a neighbor or family member watch your house, pick up newspapers, mail and clear snow from the walk. A house in darkness is a prime target for a burglar. Consider installing motion activated external lights. Do not leave valuables, such as jewelry or wallets, or displays of holiday gifts visible from doors or windows. Always have your security sign visibly placed outside your home.
7. Gifts Galore. Shop during daylight hours whenever possible. If you must shop at night, go with a friend or family member. Keep valuables in your car locked in your trunk where they are not visible from the outside of the vehicle. Even though you may be rushed and thinking about a thousand things, stay alert to your surroundings. Avoid carrying large amounts of cash. Pay for purchases with a check or credit card when possible. Notify the credit card issuer immediately if your credit card is lost, stolen or misused. Keep a record of all of your credit card numbers in a safe place at home.
8. Toys on Parade.Select toys to suit the age, abilities, skills and interest level of the intended child. Toys too advanced may pose safety hazards for younger children. Before buying a toy or allowing your child to play with a toy that he has received as a gift, read the instructions carefully. To prevent both burns and electrical shocks, don’t give young children (under age ten) a toy that must be plugged into an electrical outlet. Instead, buy toys that are battery-operated.
9. Home cookin’. The stove is the greatest heat/fire safety hazard in the kitchen. Ensure the pilot light works on a gas stove. If it doesn’t, turn all dials off and wait for gas to disperse before carefully relighting. Many people choose to cook at home during the holidays. Make sure when leaving the home the oven and stove are turned off. Always keep pot handles turned inward to prevent spillage by snagging on clothing (or children’s hands). Always remove pot lids by allowing steam to escape farthest from you. Steam, though invisible, can cause serious burns.
10. Be Prepared. Plan for safety. Remember, there is no substitute for common sense. Look for and eliminate potential hazardous spots throughout the entire home. Make an emergency plan to use if a fire breaks out anywhere in the home. See that each family member knows what to do. PRACTICE THE PLAN!
From everyone at The Marion Franke we wish you a safe and happy holiday!