The holiday season in Florida doesn’t look like most places. There are no snowdrifts or crackling fireplaces – just string lights on palm trees and cool evenings spent outside. But the season still brings its share of safety concerns. Extra cooking, decorating, guests, and gadgets can quickly add risk if you’re not paying attention.
A few thoughtful habits go a long way. Try these home safety tips for the holidays to help prevent common mishaps and protect your home, your guests, and your peace of mind.
1. Cook Smart When Hosting Gets Busy
The holidays are a feast for the senses – but they’re also the peak season for kitchen fires. Between multitasking, guests chatting nearby, and casseroles baking, it’s easy to lose track of what’s on the stove.
Stay close whenever something’s cooking, especially when using oil or frying foods. Keep a lid nearby to smother flare-ups and turn pot handles inward so no one bumps them. Clear clutter from around burners, such as oven mitts, paper towels, and recipes printed on paper.
One of the simplest home safety tips for the holidays is to stay in the kitchen when the heat’s on.
2. Keep Holiday Lights Safe – Indoors & Out
Florida’s mild weather makes outdoor decorating irresistible, but damp air and sudden rain can create hazards. Always check your light strands for frayed wires or missing bulbs before hanging them. Use outdoor-rated cords and clips, never nails or staples, to attach lights to your home.
Plug outdoor decorations into GFCI outlets, and don’t overload extension cords or outlets indoors. Unplug everything before bed or when leaving the house. A simple timer makes it effortless. Part of practicing home safety tips for the holidays is knowing when to unplug and when to upgrade your décor safely.
3. Give Heaters & Candles Their Space
Candles and space heaters both bring cozy warmth – and both demand caution.
Keep candles at least 1 foot from anything flammable and place them on sturdy, heat-resistant surfaces. Extinguish them before leaving a room.
If you use space heaters, give them 3 feet of clearance from curtains, furniture, or bedding. Plug them directly into a wall outlet, not a power strip, and switch them off before bed. Space heaters draw a significant amount of power, which can overload and overheat a power strip or extension cord.
Following these home safety tips for the holidays keeps your home glowing – without unwanted sparks.
4. Charge Devices the Right Way
Modern celebrations run on rechargeable power: phones, tablets, toys, e-scooters, and even light-up decorations. But lithium-ion batteries can overheat in certain circumstances.
Charge devices on hard surfaces, not beds or couches, and avoid stacking them together while plugged in. Don’t hide cords by running them under rugs or furniture, where heat can build up. Replace damaged chargers immediately.
These small steps protect both your home and your gadgets. As simple as it sounds, mindful charging is one of today’s most practical home safety tips for the holidays.
5. Decorate Without the Drama
Hanging garlands or lights often requires a stepladder – and each year, thousands of decorators take an unexpected tumble.
Set ladders on level ground, have a spotter, and keep your hips centered between the rails. Never stand on furniture or the very top rung. A sturdy step stool beats a shaky chair every time.
Make sure fragile ornaments and hooks are secure, especially if pets or young kids are nearby. For many homeowners, being cautious while decorating is the least glamorous but most effective of all home safety tips for the holidays.
6. Keep Entrances, Stairs, and Walkways Clear
Whether guests are coming from out of town or down the street, a welcoming home should also be a safe one. Wipe up spills quickly, secure loose rugs, and clear walkways of clutter or stray décor.
If it rains – and, in Florida, it often does – place absorbent mats at entryways and dry tile floors frequently. Add night-lights in hallways and bathrooms so visitors can move around safely after dark.
Creating a guest-friendly space isn’t just good manners; it’s smart planning. Small gestures like these embody thoughtful home safety tips for the holidays.
7. Check Your Coverage Before the Festivities Begin
Despite your precautions, accidents can still happen. A guest may slip, a candle may scorch a counter, or a power surge could damage electronics. Before the season kicks into full swing, review your homeowners policy to ensure you’re protected.
Confirm your coverage limits, deductibles, and what’s included under liability protection. If you’ve added new valuables or made major purchases this year, consider whether your policy still fits your needs. Speak with your agent if you have any questions.
One of the most overlooked home safety tips for the holidays is simply understanding your coverage before you need it.
A Safe Holiday Season Starts at Home
The holidays should be remembered for laughter and togetherness – not for preventable accidents. These seven home safety tips for the holidays are small steps with the potential to make a big difference.
Take a moment to walk through your home, double-check potential hazards, and make simple adjustments now. Peace of mind is the best gift you can give yourself – and your guests will appreciate it, too.
For more year-round practical suggestions for homeowners, browse the blogs on our website. To make changes to your policy or if you have questions about your coverage, contact your agent.
If you’re not yet insured by Edison Insurance Company, visit our website to get your quote now.
Need an expert’s opinion?
We work with thousands of agents located in a neighborhood near you. To discuss your insurance needs, contact one of our agent representatives.
Click here view our Contact page
Protect your home and condo
Keep your family safe with these brilliant coverage options
Edison sheds light on important insurance topics.
Our Blogs contain useful tips, manuals, and checklists to keep your policy up-to-date, and your home and family safe.
