A Few Simple Reminders That Can Help Keep You Safe During the Holidays

The holidays are one of my favorite times of year. There’s energy in the air, packed calendars, family gatherings, travel plans, and just enough chaos to keep things interesting. But as much as I love the season, I also know this is a time when small oversights can turn into big, expensive problems.

Consider this a friendly reminder from someone who’s seen it all, from fender benders to frozen pipes to kitchen mishaps that got a little too festive. A little prevention goes a long way, especially during the holidays.

Start with your car. Whether you’re driving across town or across state lines, make sure your vehicle is in good shape before the holiday rush. Check your tires (including pressure and tread), top off fluids, and make sure your lights are working. If winter weather is a possibility where you live or travel, keep an emergency kit in the car, think blanket, flashlight, phone charger, and a few basics just in case. Holiday traffic is heavier, people are distracted, and roads can be unpredictable. Give yourself extra time and a little extra patience.

At home, candles deserve extra respect. I love the glow of candles as much as anyone (okay, maybe more than most people), but they’re one of the leading causes of holiday fires. Never leave candles burning unattended, especially if you’re heading to bed or leaving the house. Keep them away from curtains, greenery, pets, and anything that could tip over, and make certain they're out of the reach of small children too. If you want the ambiance without the worry, flameless candles are a great alternative and have come a long way in looking realistic.

If you’re traveling, protect your pipes. Heading out of town? Don’t turn the heat off completely. Keep it set high enough to prevent pipes from freezing, especially during cold snaps. Frozen and burst pipes are one of the most common (and costly) winter claims, and they often happen when no one is home to catch the problem early. It’s also smart to shut off the main water supply if you’ll be gone for an extended period, and have someone check on your home if possible.

Be mindful in the kitchen. The holidays mean more cooking, more people, and more distractions. Never leave food cooking unattended, keep pot handles turned inward, and make sure kids and pets stay clear of hot surfaces. A fire extinguisher in or near the kitchen is a must. Most kitchen fires start small and can be handled quickly if you’re prepared.

Lights, décor, and extension cords matter. Inspect holiday lights before you hang them. If you see frayed wires or broken sockets, toss them. They're easy enough to replace. Don’t overload outlets or extension cords, and always turn lights off when you leave the house or go to sleep. For outdoor decorations, make sure everything is rated for exterior use.

Packages and guests bring their own risks. With deliveries piling up, bring packages inside as soon as possible to avoid theft. If you’re hosting, clear walkways of ice, snow, or clutter to prevent slips and falls. More people in your home means more chances for accidents, so a quick safety sweep is worth the effort.

The holidays should be about memories, not mishaps. A few simple precautions can help protect your home, your car, and the people you care about most. If you’re ever unsure whether your coverage fits your lifestyle, especially during busy seasons like this, I’m always happy to talk it through.

Stay safe, enjoy the season, and here’s to a happy, healthy holiday for you and yours.

PS Photo of me lounging in the living room and enjoying the tree.