This time of the year we get very busy. It’s not all satisfying work as we encounter homes and businesses where occupants have had to vacate the premises because of fire or flooding. This is the reason we are in business, to put your home or office back to pre-disaster condition. But during the holidays, it’s especially hard to see people in such distress. With that in mind, we’ve put together some key tips we urge you to follow now, and when your guests arrive. In the event you do have an emergency during the holidays, please know that we are here for you 24/7. Please give us a call at 720-605-2994.
Safety tips for now, and the holidays.
- Create a safe environment. Consider the age of the family or friends coming to visit you and act accordingly. Clear walkways, secure rugs – especially those small area rugs you bought especially for the holidays! And provide nightlights to guide guests safely.
- Manage electrical outlets. The easy solution for decorating might be to add an extension cord. But think about it. Are you overloading a circuit or creating a trip hazard? Electrical problems are the #1 cause of fires during the holidays.
- An outlet for your guests. And while we are on the subject of electricity, make sure you have an outlet available in the guest room so guests can charge any devices they are using.
- Nix open flames. While candles create a homey atmosphere, they can be dangerous. Instead, consider using flameless candles. They honestly look and feel just like the real thing!
- Secure outdoor decorations. It gets windy during the holidays, so make sure all decorations are stable. And secure outdoor lighting with proper electrical connections.
- Child-proofing for children. Purses, coats and bags should be stored away for the reach of children. They may contain medications or other dangers. And be extremely careful with small button batteries like those used in remote controls.
- Ensure tree stability. Another fire hazard, make sure your Christmas tree is stable and securely balanced.
- Cautionary considerations. Check your smoke detectors and carbon monoxide alarms. Be sure all doorways are accessible and not blocked by luggage and such.
- Heat your home wisely. In other words, no Christmas trees or other temporary decorations near a fireplace! And if you are using portable heaters, please turn them off when you leave or when you go to bed.
- Utilize Home Technology. There are so many great devices on the market today. Rather than coming home to a flooded basement or soggy carpets, these devices can alert you to water leaks before they become a problem. They can even warn you when the pipes are frozen. Here’s a good article on current technology.
Leaving For The Holidays? If you are venturing forth for the holidays, visiting friends, family or taking a winter vacation, consider the following safety tips.
- Besides the home technology mentioned above, consider video doorbells and other security devices.
- Make sure your home looks occupied. Using smart devices, schedule different lights to come on during different times. You can use the same devices to turn on music.
- Be sure to stop any deliveries. And ask a neighbor to watch the house, in case deliveries are made without your knowledge.
We hope the coming holidays are memorable in all the right ways!