Seven Holiday Safety Tips for Homeowners

The holidays are a time for celebrations and fond memories.

Keeping safety top of mind can help you enjoy these meaningful moments even more.

Here are seven safety tips for a fun and safe holiday season.

1 Think about tree safety

If you have a real Christmas tree, water it regularly to avoid dry needles or branches, which can become a fire hazard. Tree lights can also pose a fire risk. A faulty wire, light switch, or another electrical problem could spark a fire. Turn tree lights off when you are not home, even if you have an artificial tree.

2 Be careful with candles

Never burn candles when you are not home or are asleep. When you choose to light a holiday candle, make sure to keep it away from small children and animals, whose tails or curiosity may knock the candle over.

3 Secure your outdoor decorations

When decorating the outside of your home, properly secure displays, and lights. The Las Vegas Valley is known for its sudden high winds, which can whisk displays and lights into the nearby street or sidewalk where they may become a hazard to pedestrians or drivers.

4 Practice home security basics

Unfortunately, thefts and burglaries increase over the holidays. Keep doors locked when you are at home and when you leave. Keep your porch areas well-lit. Secure pet doors and sliding glass doors, as these can be access points for burglars. When you come home from work or shopping, park in a well-lit area. If you have a garage, close the door once you’re inside.

5 Be careful with online content

Exercise caution with social media posts. Resist the urge to brag about expensive gifts or the vacation you’re about to take. These posts allow thieves to learn about you, your belongings, and your daily routine.

6 Talk to your neighbors before hosting a large gathering

If you host a holiday party, let your neighbors know ahead of time. Make sure your guests park in designated areas, not handicapped zones, and do not block fire hydrants. It’s also a good idea to minimize noise and loud music to avoid potential conflict with neighbors.

7 Be kind

If you live in a condominium or townhome complex, your decisions more directly affect your neighbors because you live in closer proximity to them. Keep this in mind when you make plans. It’s also a great time of year to get to know a neighbor and make a new friend. You never know. That person could become your ally to keep your community safe for many holidays to come.