Deck the Halls Safely this Holiday

The holidays always bring back memories of apple cider with cinnamon sticks simmering on the stove and the crisp, fresh smell of recently decorated Christmas trees. There’s tinsel on the staircase, and the tree is adorned with love. Decorations are one of the most memorable things of the holidays. Here are a few tips to keep each one safe and serene:

1)      When you decorate your home, keep your children in mind. Christmas ornaments are often stunning, and it may be difficult for your children to stay away and not play with them. If this could be an issue, consider using plastic ornaments and string- rather than glass with metal hooks.

2)      Keep your pets in mind, too. Tinsel is vibrant and shiny, and looks like extremely fun to cats who may want to play by tapping and pulling. Dogs are often tempted to digest any holly, mistletoe or poinsettia. Keep your furry companions digestive track clear this holiday, and it’ll be a happier and healthier occasion for everyone.

3)      Check and double-check your wires. Sitting by the fire on a cold winter day is a beautiful thing, but not when your home is the firewood. When you put up your Christmas lights make sure that none of the wires are frayed, all of the connections are secure, and all of the bulbs are intact. A spark from one of these could be the end of the holiday season for you. Another thing to keep in mind is the placement of your electrical cords – make sure they’re in an area where no one will trip over them and they won’t get wet.

4)      Place your tree carefully. This tip may seem like common sense, but it’s always something good to keep in mind. When you choose where your tree is going to post up for the next month make sure that it’s not by your fireplace, any candles that you may have lit, and heating vents. Don’t let your tree be firewood.