The holidays are a great time to spend with your family and friends. Many families decorate their homes to spread the cheer and help them feel more festive. Unfortunately, if you aren’t careful about the types of décor you use or how you use it, you could be putting your home at further risk. Even if you have proper home owners insurance coverage, it’s best to avoid these problems so you can protect your home and avoid the need to make an insurance claim instead of celebrating the holidays.
Christmas Light Safety
Your Christmas lights can be a great way to quickly dress up your home, both indoors and out. Before you put up the lights, it’s important to understand how to check them and use them safely to reduce the risk of fire. Before you hang the lights:
- Check for a UL safety rating
- Check for fraying wires
- Make sure they are rated for indoor or outdoor use
- Choose locations away from fire hazards like fireplaces, space heaters, and candles
- Use insulated holders designed for Christmas lights
In addition to checking the lights over carefully and installing them using the appropriate methods, there are other precautions you must take. If you need to use an extension cord, choose one that can accommodate the wattage of your lights without overloading the circuits. Place any extension cords out of the way to prevent tripping hazards. Turn the lights off when you leave your home or go to sleep and replace any burned out bulbs as quickly as possible. When you follow these precautions, you will reduce the risk your lights may start a fire that causes the need for a claim against your insurance in Dallas, TX.
Tree Safety
While some homeowners choose a fake tree, which isn’t as dangerous as a real tree, there are some people who prefer the smell and look of real pine. If you choose a fake tree, make sure it’s certified as fire retardant. For real trees, look for green needles that don’t fall when touched. This ensures a fresh tree. Before you place the real tree in your home, cut off one to two inches from the trunk and place the tree at least three feet from any heat source and away from doorways. Watering the tree should be a daily task. Once it’s time to decorate your tree, make sure the lights you use are rated properly. Never use strings of lights with worn cords or loose bulb connections. You should never connect more than three strands together. Don’t use candles to light your tree and always turn it off when you go to sleep or leave the house, just like the rest of your lights. Dispose of the tree once it dries out and starts dropping needles. At ABCO Home Plus Insurance Agency, we understand how important decorating for the holidays is to your family. While you have your home owners insurance coverage to protect you in the event of a fire, filing a claim at this time of the year isn’t at the top of your wish list. For this reason, we encourage you to follow these precautions to ensure a safe, happy holiday season. If you are looking for an experienced insurance agent in Dallas, TX, contact us. We can help you make the right choices to protect your family.