Decorate Safe This Holiday Season

AAA Northway Insurance Agency Team

The holiday season is just around the corner.  Decorating your home indoors and out is a longstanding tradition – but it also comes with risks.

Here are some tips to help you prevent holiday mishaps:
1. Keep décor away from heat sources. Make sure indoor lights, candles and live trees are placed away from flammable items, fireplaces and heaters.
2. Take care of your tree. Buy live trees that are fresh and green, and water them regularly to keep them hydrated. If you choose an artificial tree, make sure it is labeled as “fire-resistant.”
3. Don’t throw wrapping paper in the fireplace. Instead, recycle your wrapping paper or save it to be reused. Place a screen around your fireplace to prevent sparks from igniting flammable materials.
4. Double-check your lights. Check your lights for frays and cracks, and make sure there is a Decorate Safe This Holiday Season bulb in every socket. Discard or replace any damaged strands.
5. Power down before bedtime. Turn off all lights before you go to bed and set timers if you will be away from home to prevent an electrical fire.
6. Opt for unbreakable ornaments. Choose bulbs and decorations that won’t shatter and create a hazard if broken.
7. Stay safe outside. Outside, keep ladders and decorations away from overhead powerlines and avoid hammering tacks or nails into electrical cords.
8. Choose non-toxic plants. Keep poisonous plants like holly, mistletoe and poinsettias out of reach of children and pets. Having the right Insurance Company and Home Insurance coverages that best meet your needs can give you the peace of mind to fully enjoy the holiday season. To find out more about AAA Home and Auto Insurance, contact AAA Northway Insurance Agency today.