Holiday Safety Tips from Atlas Insurance
The holiday season is a time for joy, celebration, and making lasting memories with loved ones. However, the hustle and bustle can also bring safety risks. At Atlas Insurance, we want to help you make sure your festivities remain safe and stress-free. Here are some helpful reminders to keep in mind as you celebrate the holidays and welcome the new year.
Keep Holiday Decorations Safe and Secure
Decorating for the holidays can be a fun family activity, but it’s important to do so safely:
-
Place fragile ornaments and decorations out of reach of small children.
-
Ensure your Christmas tree is on a stable stand to prevent tipping.
-
Use indoor and outdoor lights that are UL-certified and check them for frayed wires before use.
-
Avoid overloading electrical outlets or connecting too many light strands together. Use power strips with surge protection.
Prevent Fire Hazards
Holiday lights and candles add warmth to your home, but they require extra caution:
-
Turn off decorative lights before going to bed or leaving the house.
-
Keep candles at least 12 inches away from flammable materials and never leave them unattended.
-
Make sure your fireplace has a protective screen to prevent sparks or embers from escaping.
-
Water your live Christmas tree regularly to avoid it drying out, as dry trees can become fire hazards.
Food Safety First
Holiday feasts are a highlight of the season. Follow these tips to keep your gatherings healthy:
-
Cook all food to the recommended temperatures to avoid foodborne illnesses.
-
Avoid leaving food out for more than two hours to prevent bacteria growth.
-
Store leftovers promptly in airtight containers to maintain freshness.
Supervise New Toys and Gifts
Excited children and new toys can sometimes lead to unexpected mishaps:
-
Discard plastic wrapping, twist ties, and other small parts immediately to prevent choking hazards.
-
Check that toys are age-appropriate and do not contain small batteries or parts that could be swallowed.
Holiday Travel Tips
Whether you’re visiting family or enjoying a seasonal getaway, travel with care:
-
Plan your route in advance and leave extra time for potential delays.
-
Get plenty of rest before hitting the road to avoid fatigue.
-
Stay alert and drive defensively to protect yourself and others.
Set a Positive Tone for the New Year
The holidays are a perfect time to set intentions for the year ahead. Consider these ideas:
-
Declutter and organize your space to start the new year with a fresh perspective.
-
Review your insurance coverage to ensure your policies still align with your needs.
-
Set realistic goals for personal and professional growth.
From all of us at Atlas Insurance, we wish you a joyous and safe holiday season and a prosperous New Year! Remember, we’re always here to support you and your loved ones.