Home (Safe) For the Holidays

2024-11-27
By: Advocate Brokerage

Quick Tips on How to Ensure Seasonal Fire Safety for Your Luxury Home and Guests

Today’s homes come with many unique features. When you own a high-end home or rental property, you assume the risks that come along with life’s little luxuries. Today, we’ll take a quick look at a few ways you can keep your home and those in it safe and secure throughout the holiday season.

Fireplace Safety

First things first, make sure that your fireplace has been professionally inspected. Look for a certified chimney sweep that can ensure proper ventilation and identify potential fire hazards. You’ll also want to confirm they are using only dry, seasoned wood. Avoid using cardboard, paper, or flammable liquids to start an indoor fire.

Importantly, avoid the temptation to remove ashes from the fireplace until they are completely cold, which can take several days. The only safe way to empty a fireplace before this time is to store the ashes in a fireproof tin.

Holiday Lighting

Holiday lights can bring a lot of joy, but there are a few safety precautions to take before you light up the night sky. To start, consider utilizing LED lights. Not only are they energy-efficient, but they are less likely to overheat. If you’re using temporary lights indoors or out, make sure the wires are not frayed and that all sockets are fully functional before use.

Keep lights away from flammable materials, including curtains and furniture. To further reduce fire hazards, utilize a timer to automatically turn your lights on and off. A smart plug will give you the option to turn your lights on or off manually when you’re away from home.

Appliance Safety

Cooking is an important part of the holiday season, and kitchen safety is paramount to having a happy new year. The most important thing you can do while cooking is to keep your attention focused on the heat. Never leave the kitchen unattended when your oven or other heat-using appliance is in use.

Keep a fire extinguisher handy and clean your range hood frequently to remove smoke and grease.

Home Insurance

While having a home insurance policy cannot prevent a fire, having adequate coverage can help mitigate your losses. Call your insurance Advocate and ask them to review your policy. It’s also helpful to maintain detailed records of valuable items, including jewelry, art, and antiques.

Contact Advocate Brokerage today for more information on how to keep your family safe this holiday season.

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