The holiday season is full of good things: lights, gatherings, favorite recipes and time away. It also brings a few extra risks to your home. With a handful of simple habits, you can keep the focus on celebrating.
Before hanging lights, check strands for frayed wires, cracked sockets or loose connections, and toss anything damaged. LED lights run cooler than older incandescent bulbs and use less energy. Avoid plugging too many strands into one outlet, use outdoor-rated cords and timers for exterior displays and turn decorations off when you go to bed or leave the house.
If you have a real tree, water it daily, since a dry tree can catch fire quickly. Keep any tree well away from fireplaces, space heaters and vents. Real or artificial, use a sturdy, weighted stand so it will not tip over, especially with pets or small children around. If you choose an artificial tree, look for one labeled fire resistant.
Battery-operated candles offer the same glow without the open flame. If you do light real candles, keep them away from decorations, curtains and anything flammable, and never leave them burning unattended.
Holiday cooking means more dishes, more people and more distractions. Keep towels, oven mitts and packaging away from burners. Stay in the kitchen while frying or using the stovetop, and set timers so nothing gets forgotten. Keep a fire extinguisher where you can reach it quickly.
Holiday deliveries can also attract porch thieves. Ask for packages to be held for pickup or require a signature for valuable items.
If friends and family are staying over, show them where exits, fire extinguishers and first aid supplies are. Keep medications and small decorations out of reach of young visitors, and make sure guest rooms have working smoke alarms.
Before the season gets busy, test smoke and carbon monoxide detectors and replace batteries. If you will be using a fireplace or heating system more than usual, make sure vents and chimneys are clean and clear. Keep walkways and steps well lit for guests arriving after dark.
Your home is one of your most important investments, and a little care keeps it protected. If you are thinking about upgrades in the new year, such as better lighting, a security system or a kitchen refresh, a HELOC or refinance may help. Reach out to a FLO Mortgage loan officer anytime to talk through your options.
A FLO Mortgage loan officer can walk through your options, run real numbers and help you choose a loan that fits.
This article is for general education and is not a commitment to lend. All loans are subject to credit approval, underwriting guidelines and program availability. FLO Mortgage, Company NMLS #1835856. Equal Housing Opportunity.
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