Decorate Safely

Decorate safely for the holidays. Many have at least begun their holiday decorating this season, if not already finished. Some are finishing up decorations as the holidays draw nearer. It really is the most wonderful time of year. With these safety tips, you can enjoy beautiful (and safer) holiday decor in your own home. If you are decorating this season, practice these decoration safety tips to avoid holiday injuries.

Decorate Safely Outdoors

You already know, Alaska is cold this time of year. When hanging lights or ornaments outside, decorate safely make sure power sources are rated for the colder temperatures. Replace broken bulbs before hanging lights and check cords to make sure there is no damage from storage or the previous season. Remove snow buildup before setting up a ladder and ensure you have a spotter to help in case of emergency. Frost bite is a real concern in Alaska, even if the temperatures rise, wear gloves when hanging decorations and go inside for a break when you start to feel cold.

The weather changes over the course of the season and storms can blow decorations away. If you know a storm is coming, decorate safely by ensuring decorations are tied down or bringing them inside. Things like wreaths or ornaments can blow away with strong winds, posing risks to drivers or animals. If you notice something is missing, do not assume it was stolen. Walk around the exterior of your home to see if you can locate the missing item.

Inspect Decorations To Decorate Safely

Decorate safely – be cautious when opening storage containers as decorations and ornaments may be damaged or broken and can cause injury. Repair or throw away broken ornaments and décor.

Electrical fires are a major concern this time of year. Protect yourself and your home by safely decorating for the holidays.

Check light strands thoroughly for fraying or exposed wires. Both outdoor and indoor light strands can become frayed from use or storage. Decorate safely by replacing old and worn-out light strands to avoid electrical fires.

Decorate Safely – Holiday Trees

Real trees are beautiful and make the house smell amazing. Alaskans have the option of cutting down their own tree, but there are laws in place to protect Alaskan forests. Follow Alaska laws when cutting down a tree. Plan before going out into the forest to cut down a tree. Wear gloves and take a friend (or two) to assist.

Whether buying a tree or cutting your own, choose trees that are healthy and keep the trees well-watered throughout the season. When bringing the tree home, adequately tie the tree to your vehicle so it does not fall off in traffic.

Decorate safely by placing trees in a level, stable location. An unstable tree can tip over and cause injuries. Real trees must be watered regularly so they stay hydrated and reduce the risk of catching fire. Keep holiday trees away from heat sources and candles to avoid potential fires. Never place a tree, real or fake, next to an open flame or heater.

Do not leave lights or decor on constantly. Turn off lights regularly to allow them to cool and prevent fires. Turn tree lights off when not at home.

Keep Children and Pets Safe

Keep small children and pets away from holiday trees when possible so they do not accidentally tip the tree over or cause harm to themselves or others. Explain to children the importance of decorating safely and keeping a distance from holiday decor. This will help prevent injuries. Watch your pets closely and coach them to steer clear of holiday decor.

Johnson & Associates wishes you and yours a peaceful, healthy and safe holiday season.

Johnson & Associates has been helping Alaskans for nearly 30 years. It’s who we are. And while we hope you never need us… We’re here if you do. ~ Doug Johnson

Please call Johnson & Associates to discuss your case: (907)277-3090 or use our online contact form.

Secondary Sources: Alaska Public Information Center

Image Source: Kirkland’s Home