The holiday season is here! Your house is beautifully decorated, presents are under the tree, and your big family meal is planned. However, as we know, unexpected issues can arise, from a home cooking fire to Auntie Ruth’s endless complaints.

If those are our biggest concerns, we’re lucky. Still, unforeseen events can lead to costly and dangerous problems. Here are some essential home safety tips to keep your holidays worry-free:

1. Check Your Dishwasher’s Supply Line: Ensure there are no leaks. A leaking supply line could lead to a flooded kitchen—definitely not the Christmas surprise you want!
2. Inspect Household Plumbing: Look for signs of leaking throughout your plumbing system. Remember, mold can indicate hidden leaks that may require immediate attention.
3. Upgrade to LED Holiday Lights: If possible, replace old decorative lights with LED bulbs. Though they may cost a bit more, they last longer and consume less power, reducing the risk of overheating and fire.
4. Create a Kid-Free Zone: Maintain a 3-foot area around open fires and space heaters. Always turn off space heaters when you and your guests go to bed.
5. Position Your Tree Safely: Ensure your tree is not near any heat sources and does not block emergency exits.
6. Monitor Candles: If you choose to burn candles, always keep an eye on them, and never place them near the tree or decorations.
7. Keep Ornaments Out of Reach: Move any sharp or small tree ornaments high enough to be out of reach of small children.
8. Clear the Fireplace Area: Remove decorations, greens, and boughs from around your fireplace to avoid fire hazards.
9. Don’t Burn Wrapping Paper in the Fireplace: This can cause dangerous flare-ups.
10. Inspect Gas Lines: Ensure there are no leaks that could lead to dangerous gas exposure.
11. Test Your Smoke Alarms: Make sure your smoke alarms are functioning, and have an escape plan in place in case of a fire.
12. Keep Poinsettias Out of Reach: These festive plants are known to be poisonous to children and pets.

By following these tips, you can help ensure a safer, more enjoyable holiday season. Stay prepared, and once guests arrive, relax and enjoy the festivities—just keep an eye on that ham baking in the oven!

Feel free to print this home safety tips list and check off each item before the holidays begin.

– George Fahouris

George’s expertise in marketing, management, and building high-powered teams has guided Certified Restoration’s accelerated growth and commitment to customer service. Involved in daily operations, George focuses especially on internet marketing and social media.

For any concerns about potential water damage, flood damage restoration in San Diego, or mold remediation, remember that Certified Restoration is here to help, providing 24/7 emergency services to keep your home safe this holiday season!

“Disclaimer: This article is for general information ONLY and is not intended to be legal, medical, or scientific advice. The proper approach to each project must be determined on a case-by-case basis. Certified Restoration always recommends that you call a certified restoration professional, especially when there are children, elderly, or individuals with health conditions residing in the property. “