Holiday Safety Tips

Holidays can be a great time with family and friends as long as it is done safely. Here are some tips on how to have a happy and successful holiday season.

1. Don’t drink and drive. During the Holidays it’s a good time for Holiday cheer but do it responsibly and don’t get behind the wheel. Use driving services like Taxis, Uber, Lyfte or or call for friends and family to give you a ride.
   
   
2. Use battery operated candles. According to the NFPA (National Fire Protection Association) nearly 50% of fires caused by home decorations are caused by candles. Safer alternatives include scent diffusers or wax warmers/melters.
   
   
3. Unplug the lights. Decorations can become warm when left on for extended periods of time. When leaving the house or going to sleep, turn them off. Half of home fire deaths occur between 11:00 P.M. and 7:AM. (NFPA). Light timers are a convenient solution to “set it and forget it” so lights turn on and off automatically.
   
   
4. Water tree daily to prevent tree fires in your home. Also, ensure smoke and carbon monoxide detectors are in good working order, at home and at your job.
   
   
5. Don’t travel in bad weather. Holidays are known as busy travel times but don’t be a statistic—if you can’t make it safely, just stay home. Throughout the winter, keep an emergency preparedness kit in every vehicle including items like jumper cables, snow boots, extra blankets/clothing, rope or salt.
   
   
6. Take frequent breaks during snow removal at home and at work. Treat icy patches on sidewalks and stairs with sand or salt.
   
   
7. If you have an elderly or disabled person in your community, pay them a visit. 15 minutes out of your day could make their entire day better.
   
   
8. If you have the means, donate to your local charities, food pantries and clothing drives. Your kind deed will certainly bring Christmas cheer to someone in need!

In this season of giving, watch out for each other at the workplace, on the road and as a community. Have a safe and happy Holiday season!