A Safe, Secure Home for the Holidays

It's that time of year again, when most of us are busy planning holiday celebrations with family and friends. Whether you plan to stay home or travel this year, make sure you take steps to keep your home safe and secure. Here are some tips to help keep the season bright:

Holiday Lights

• Use miniature lights with cool-burning bulbs that have been approved by a testing laboratory.
• Always follow manufacturer’s instructions and be sure that any lights or extension cords used outside of your home are labeled for outdoor use.
• Inspect light strings and replace any damaged bulbs before plugging the lights in.
• Never attempt to repair a frayed or damaged light set — throw it out.
• Don't overload electrical outlets or connect more than three light strands together.
• Turn lights off before going to bed or leaving home.

Candles

• Candles should never be used to decorate trees or wreaths.
• Use sturdy candleholders that won't easily tip.
• Place candles on uncluttered surfaces that are out of the reach of children and pets. Don't place them in windows or near combustible materials, such as curtains, paper, or clothing.
• Extinguish candles when leaving the room or going to sleep.

Christmas Trees

• If buying a live tree, make sure it is fresh. An easy test is to grasp a branch between your thumb and forefinger and pull it toward you. Very few needles should come off in your hand if the tree is fresh.
• Use a sturdy stand with a large water reservoir, and water your tree daily. An average tree will consume up to a gallon of water per day.
• Make a fresh cut across the base of the trunk right before you set it up to allow adequate water absorption.
• Keep the tree away from heat sources such as fireplaces, heating vents, and radiators.
• If using an artificial tree, make sure it is made from flame-retardant materials.

In addition to following these safety tips, take precautions to discourage thieves from targeting your home during the holidays:

• When leaving home, securely lock all windows and doors, even if you will only be gone a few minutes.
• Make sure large displays of holiday gifts and expensive items cannot be seen through the windows and doors of your home.
• If leaving for an extended time, ask a friend or family member to keep an eye on your house and pick up your mail and newspapers. (You can also have mail and paper delivery suspended.) If possible, leave a car parked in your driveway while you are gone.

Following these tips will help keep your home safe and secure … and help you enjoy a special time of year.

AAA Insurance wishes you a safe and happy holiday season!

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