The holidays are filled with joyful decorations, twinkly lights and thoughtful gifts to bring festive cheer! However, there are risks associated with the holiday season that you should be mindful of to stay safe in your home. Read below for helpful holiday hazard prevention tips.

Holiday Trees

• Place the tree away from high traffic areas and doorways.
• Make sure the tree is secured properly in a stand.
• Place the tree away from heat sources such as vents, radiators, stoves, fireplaces, and open flame candles.
• Place metal, sharp or breakable ornaments closer to the top of the tree and out of reach from young children.
• If you decide to purchase a real tree, be sure to dispose right after the holidays or as soon as the needles begin to fall.

Holiday Lights and Decorations

• Be sure to use lights that are marked with an accredited certification agency such as CSA, cUL, or cETL.
• Be sure to use indoor lights for indoor use only and outdoor lights for outdoor use only.
• Check all light bulbs before putting them on your tree or house. Replace according to the manufacturer’s recommendations.
• Discard any lights that are frayed or have exposed wires.
• Do NOT run electrical and extension cords through or across doorways where they may be pinched or under carpets where they can overheat.
• Avoid plugging in too many lights and decorations into an outlet.
• Choose decorations such as tinsel and artificial icicles made of plastic or non-leaded metals. Do NOT let children put decorations in their mouths as it could be harmful.

Toys and Gifts

Toys and gifts bring lots of joy to children during the holiday season. Reduce harmful hazards by purchasing well-made toys that are appropriate for your child’s age. Toys recommended for older children could contain small parts that could lead to choking hazards. Be sure to follow the age labels, warnings and safety messages that appear on toy packaging.

Learn More

The Insurance Market would like to wish you a cheerful and safe holiday season. Enjoy your holiday traditions by keeping these safety tips in mind to ensure you and your family are kept safe!

Holiday hazards are common for causing potential damage and personal liability situations during the holiday season. Protect you and your family with TIM’s Home Insurance coverage. Click here to learn more.

For more information about Tips for Holiday Safety, read this Government of Canada article.