Many families and friends experience different kinds of holiday celebrations, enjoying quality time with each other. If you find yourself hosting an outdoor holiday celebration this year, be sure to do it safely. Follow some of our tips below to help you prepare and practice safety this holiday season.
Inspect and Repair Outdoors
Use the time before the holiday festivities begin to inspect your home’s exterior. Fix any porch steps or railings which could pose a risk to guests as they start passing through your home. Call a trusted professional to help you make any outdoor repairs as needed.
Decorate Safely
Safely decorate outside for the holidays or for any outdoor celebrations. Make sure power cords are secure and away from walking paths to avoid tripping. If you are using string lights, inspect them before hanging them up to ensure there are no frayed cords or cracked bulbs. Always use caution when using a ladder to decorate. For all electric decorations, be sure to not overload extension cords and turn off all lights and decorations before leaving your home or going to sleep or use an electronic timer.
Properly use Grills and Fryers
Grills and fryers should always be used outdoors, on level ground, and at least 30 feet away from buildings and flammable materials. Use proper tools like oven mitts, potholders, and tongs to handle hot pots or pans. Never leave fryers, grills, or stovetops unattended, as NFPA states: “unattended cooking was by far the leading contributing factor in cooking fires and fire deaths.”
Secure Outdoor Pools and Decks
If your home has an outdoor pool, make sure it is secure with proper fencing around the perimeter. Practice pool safety if the Florida weather allows for a holiday pool party. Clear your decks of clutter before hosting holiday celebrations outdoors. Inspect your deck’s paneling and steps to ensure there are no tripping hazards.
Review Your Insurance Policy
Keeping your family and home safe and protected is Florida Peninsula Insurance Company’s top priority. Review your policy online or by calling your agent to make sure you have proper coverage this holiday season. For more information, or to get a quote, please call 877-229-2244.
