The holiday season is a time for celebration, gatherings, and cherished moments with family and friends. However, it also brings unique safety challenges, especially for Florida homeowners. In this blog, we will explore common holiday safety concerns and provide practical tips to keep your home safe and secure this season.
1. Humidity & Mold
Florida's warm and humid climate can create ideal conditions for mold growth, especially during the holiday season when homes may be left unventilated for holiday gatherings elsewhere or travel. Mold not only poses health risks but can also damage your property if left unchecked. It’s crucial to be proactive in managing humidity levels to protect your home.
Humidity Safety Tips
- Keep indoor humidity below 60% with dehumidifiers and proper ventilation.
- Regularly check for mold in damp areas and remove it with bleach promptly.
- When traveling, maintain airflow in the home by leaving the air conditioning on a low setting.
2. Holiday Lights
Florida’s mild winter allows for elaborate outdoor decorations and lighting, increasing fire risks. Decorating with lights is a festive tradition, but improper use can lead to electrical fires.
Holiday Lights Safety Tips
- Inspect all lights for frayed wires or broken sockets before use.
- Keep flammable materials away from heat sources.
- Use outdoor-rated lights for outdoor displays
- Avoid overloading circuits.
- Turn off lights when you go to bed or leave home.
3. Cooking Hazards
With holiday feasts on the horizon, kitchens become bustling hubs. Cooking-related fires are common during the holidays.
Cooking Safety Tips
- Stay in the kitchen while cooking.
- Keep flammable items away from the stovetop.
- Have a fire extinguisher handy and know how to use it.
4. Holiday Entertaining
Holiday gatherings often involve larger crowds, which can lead to accidents and injuries.
Entertaining Safety Tips
- Keep walkways clear of obstacles and anything slippery.
- Secure loose rugs.
- Ensure pathways are well-lit.
- If serving alcohol, have a plan for designated drivers or alternative transportation.
5. Pool Safety
With warm weather, many Floridians continue to enjoy their pools during the holidays. This raises additional holiday safety concerns, particularly for children and pets.
Pool Safety Tips
- Always supervise children and pets around the pool, making sure one adult is the designated watcher.
- Install safety barriers, such as a pool fence with a self-latching gate.
- Ensure life-saving equipment is readily accessible.
- Educate everyone on swimming rules.
- Avoid running near the pool to prevent accidents.
6. Wildlife Encounters
Florida's unique wildlife poses holiday safety concerns during outdoor gatherings in December and January. Potential encounters with alligators or snakes, especially near any body of water or wooded areas requires vigilance and caution.
Wildlife Safety Tips
- Remain alert when outdoors.
- Keep food and trash securely stored to avoid attracting wildlife.
- Educate others – especially children – about local wildlife.
- Maintain a safe distance from any animals encountered outdoors.
7. Candle Safety
Candles create a warm and inviting atmosphere, but they can also pose fire hazards. According to the National Fire Protection Association, candles cause more than 7,000 home fires each year – with candle-related fires peaking in December and January. Sadly, the largest number of candle-begun fires occur on Christmas Day.
Candle Safety Tips
- Always place candles on stable surfaces, away from flammable materials.
- Never leave candles unattended.
- Consider using flameless candles as a safe alternative.
8. Home Security
Many homeowners travel during the holidays, leaving their homes vulnerable to break-ins. The holiday season often sees a rise in thefts, especially with packages left on porches.
Home Security Tips
- Ensure all doors and windows are locked before leaving.
- Consider investing in a monitored security system or smart home devices allowing you to monitor your home remotely – you may even qualify for a discount on your home insurance premium!
- Ask a trusted neighbor to keep an eye on your property while you’re away.
- Use package delivery options requiring a signature or have packages delivered to secure locations if you're not home to receive them.
9. Pet Safety
With more people in the home and potentially dangerous decorations, pets can be at risk during the holidays.
Pet Safety Tips
- Keep decorations, food, and hazardous items out of reach.
- Ensure your pets have a quiet space to retreat to if they feel overwhelmed by holiday activity to help prevent dog bites inside and outside the home.
10. The ‘H’ Word
While the holidays may seem (mostly) calm, Florida can still experience tropical storms and hurricanes in December and sometimes even in January. It’s essential to remain vigilant.
Hurricane Safety Tips
- Ensure your home is prepared for any unexpected weather changes.
- Keep emergency supplies readily available, including flashlights, batteries, and nonperishable food.
- If you live in an evacuation zone, have a preparedness plan in place.
Focus on Holiday Safety to Enhance Your Celebrations
The holiday season is thought of as a season of joy and celebration, but safety should always come first. By being aware of these holiday safety concerns unique to Florida, homeowners can better protect themselves, their families, and their properties during the festive season. Stay safe and enjoy the holidays! If you have any questions about your home insurance or need assistance with coverage, contact your Florida Peninsula Insurance Company agent right away. You can also get a quote with us online right now.
