The holidays are upon us, and with the holidays come family gatherings, decorations, and delicious foods. Unfortunately, these aren’t the only things the season brings. According to the US Fire Administration, ‘tis the season for fires, as well.
That’s why we, at Aftermath Adjusters & Consulting, LLC want to do everything we can to make your sure holidays stay happy and safe. Following these five tips is a great place to start.

Pay Attention to Cooking

Almost half of home fires start while cooking food. This is more common during the holidays because there are more cooks in the kitchen, more food preparation, and more things to pull your attention away from the task at hand.

Here are a few tips to keep you safe:

  • Don’t leave the kitchen when you have a pot or pan on the stovetop
  • Keep lids close by to cover flames should they arise
  • Turn off the burners when you are finished preparing the food
  • Remove pots and pans from the burner as soon as you are finished cooking

Think About Your Indoor Decorations

Holiday decorations often include beautiful lights and candles. However, both of these can cause fires if you aren’t careful.

  • Don’t use decorations with frayed cords
  • Be careful not to damage cords when hanging them on the wall
  • Keep candle flames away from children
  • Never walk away from a burning candle
  • Place Christmas trees at least three feet away from a heat source
  • Do not leave tree lights burning while you sleep or while you are away from home
  • Do not use real candles on a Christmas tree

Think About Outdoor Decorations, Too

Outdoor light displays are beautiful. Who doesn’t love to look at the festive lights? However, done incorrectly, they can be the source of a fire that would ruin the season.

  • Never use indoor use decorations outdoors
  • Don’t use cords in standing water
  • Be sure not to pinch cords in windows, doors, or under furniture

Watch Lighters and Matches

You have a beautifully scented orange cranberry candle burning and holiday music playing on the radio. But where did you put the matches?

  • Keep matches and lighters away from children
  • Make sure cigarettes are completely put out before throwing them away
  • Outdoor fire pits should be at least 10 feet from your home
  • Don’t use an outdoor fire in windy conditions

Fireworks Are Fun – and Dangerous

Florida law allows residents to use fireworks just three times per year – July 4th, New Year’s Eve, and New Year’s Day. Although they are beautiful to look at, they can be dangerous if you don’t follow common-sense safety rules.

  • Check local laws – some cities and counties do not allow fireworks on these holidays
  • Do not let children set off fireworks
  • For fireworks such as sparklers, make sure children are supervised at all times
  • Do not use fireworks within your home
  • Set off fireworks away from building and trees
  • Do not try to relight a firework that didn’t work properly the first time
Following these simple rules will help you have a safe and happy holiday season. Of course, even when taking all the necessary precautions, accidents still happen. If your property sustains fire and smoke damage, please give Aftermath Adjusters & Consulting, LLC a call. We will be with you every step of the way as we take your claim through to settlement. Call us today.