Keep your home safe this holiday season

The holiday season is a magical time; keep it that way by using these tips.

Decorations

• If you have a real tree, water it daily. Dried our trees are extremely susceptible to ignition.
• Keep lights, candles, and open flames away from your tree.
• Poinsettias are mildly toxic to cats and dogs. If you have these plants, keep them in areas where they aren’t easily accessible to your furry friends.

Kitchen and Fireplace

• If you’re entertaining for the holidays, keep an eye on anything in the oven to avoid fires and ruined dinners.
• After you’re finished roasting those chestnuts and relaxing by the fire, make sure it’s fully out before leaving the house or heading to bed.

Presents and Packages

• Have packages delivered to your office to have a colleague accept delivery, or provide special instructions to your driver to mitigate theft.
• If tracking numbers for your packages are provided, keep an eye out on the delivery dates and package status.
• If you’re getting expensive, big ticket items, try not to leave the packaging visible when you’re putting out the trash.

Traveling

• Let your neighbors know and ask if they can keep an eye on your home. Have them check your mail, too.
• Try not to announce to too many people that you’re going to be out of town if you’re leaving, along with sharing updates on social media.
• Make sure all of your doors and windows are locked, and your valuables are secured safely.

Have a favorite tip not listed? Tag us on social media or drop us a comment.