Holiday Safety Checklist for Your Home

It’s that time of year again! The holidays are just around the corner and that means it’s time to start thinking about holiday safety. Winter weather can be tough on your home, so it’s important to make sure everything is in working order before the cold sets in. Here’s a quick checklist of things to check on to ensure your home is safe during the winter months.

Appliances

One of the most important things to check on before the holidays is your appliances. Make sure your furnace is in good working order and that you have enough fuel to last the winter. If you have a wood-burning stove, check the flue and make sure it’s clear of obstructions. Now is also a good time to stock up on firewood so you’re not caught off guard if we have a cold snap.

Pipes

Frozen pipes are one of the most common problems during the winter months, so it’s important to take some preventative measures. Insulate any exposed pipes and keep an eye on any pipes that run through unheated areas of your home, like the attic or crawlspace. If you know we’re going to have a cold snap, let water drip from your faucets overnight to keep them from freezing. And as always, keep an eye out for any signs of leaks or drips and get them fixed right away.

Fire Safety

The holidays are a time for family, fun, and—unfortunately—fires. Cooking is one of the leading causes of house fires, so make sure you have a working smoke alarm in the kitchen and keep an eye on what’s cooking at all times. candles are also popular during the holidays, so be extra careful when using them and never leave them unattended. And finally, make sure your Christmas tree is away from heat sources like fireplaces and space heaters. A dry tree can go up in flames in seconds, so keep it watered and away from heat sources.

Water Safety

There are a few things to be aware of when it comes to water safety during the winter months. First, if you have an outdoor pool, make sure it’s properly covered to prevent anyone from falling in. Second, if you live in an area that gets a lot of snow, be aware of the risk of roof collapses due to the weight of the snow and ice build-up. And finally, if you plan on doing any winter activities like ice skating or sledding, make sure you’re aware of conditions ahead of time and take appropriate safety precautions.

Taking some time to prepare your home for winter weather can go a long way toward preventing accidents and keeping your family safe during the holidays. By following this quick checklist, you can rest assured that your home is ready for whatever Old Man Winter throws our way!