The holidays are a time for fun, family, and celebration. While enjoying the festivities this holiday season, you should also be cautious and safe. There some hazards around the house during the holidays, including some of your decorations. Keep reading to learn about 6 safety tips for holiday decorating.
Tip 1: Don’t Put Your Tree Near a Heat Source
Consumer Reports warns homeowners to keep real and artificial trees away from heat sources. This includes fireplaces, radiators, space heaters, and central heat vents. Place your tree in a part of your home that’s well away from heating sources.
Tip 2: Don’t Leave Burning Candles Unattended
People love to light candles during the holiday season. Holidays such as Christmas, Hanukkah, and Kwanzaa typically include candles in their celebrations. There is nothing wrong with these customs, however, no one should burn candles and leave them unattended. You can buy inexpensive battery-powered LED candles with a realistic flicker that’s a safer alternative.
Tip 3: Safety Tips for Holiday Decorating With String Lights
These safety tips for holiday decorating also apply to string lights. Turn off your string lights when you’re not home and before you go to sleep. When hanging your lights, inspect them for broken bulbs and frayed wires. Discard any strands that are not in good condition and replace them.
Tip 4: Don’t Put up Lights Without Assistance
People often hurt themselves during the holiday season while putting up lights or outdoor decorations. Ask another adult to help decorate, especially if you are climbing on a ladder. Another person can spot you while you climb a ladder and hand the decorations to you.
Tip 5: Fake Foods Can be Dangerous for Kids and Pets
Fake food items are sometimes used for decorations. If you use fake candy canes, fruits, and candy for ornamental purposes, keep them away from young children and pets. They might mistake them for real food or treats and try to eat them, which is a choking hazard.
Tip 6: Safety Tips for Holiday Decorating with Poisonous Plants
Many people like to decorate their homes with plants during the holidays. Plants such as mistletoe, holly, and poinsettias are often found in a number of homes. These plants are toxic and need to be kept out of the reach of children and pets.
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