Trick Or Trouble? Keeping Holidays Safe

As the excitement for the holiday season is gearing up, festive get togethers are being planned, and treats are being made, the risk for homeowners starts to go up. Whether you’re hosting a big family dinner, hanging lights or just dealing with unfavorable weather, accidents can happen! When they do, you could be held responsible. From slips on wet leaves, or icy walkways, this season can bring more than just cheer. In this article, we are going to be breaking down common liability issues homeowners could face during the “ber” months and how to keep your home safe, welcoming and claim free.

The jump of liability claims during Spooky Season is significant. An incredible 14% compared to other days of the year. Theft on premises jumps to 46%! Trips, falls, theft and fire related accidents along with many more perils could be expected on All Hallows Eve. To prepare for these possibilities, prepping your house for Halloween or any other holiday should be an easy process. Minimizing dangers for your visitors can avoid added stress during the holidays and prevent a liability claim.

How to prep your house for holiday gatherings

Make sure pathways are clear and well lit. If snow shows, make sure to shovel so your party guests, carolers and other holiday visitors have a clear walkway. You should turn a close eye to porch furniture and railings, making sure they’re secure. Taking the time to complete small adjustments can significantly reduce risk of accidents.

Pet safety is an important part of hosting during the holidays. Dogs can become over stimulated by loud noises and unfamiliar people. Creating a space for your pet where they can stay comfortable and safe. Inform your guests this area should not be disturbed. For excited, yet friendly pets, supervised introductions are the way to go! Providing your pet with a stress-free environment is a great way to reduce bite risks.

A lit jack-o-lantern, the smell of a Thanksgiving turkey and pretty Christmas lights can all bring about feelings of warmth and nostalgia. The USFA, U.S. Fire Administration recommends using LED lights or battery operated, flameless candles. Always check your lights for exposed wires, any strands that show pinched or fraying should be tossed in the trash. When hanging lights or decorations, make sure your ladder is on flat ground to avoid falls.

Who doesn’t love the smell of a fresh Christmas tree? Keeping your trees watered is crucial. The National Fire Protection Association says 13% of fires reported around Christmas are due to the tree’s placement being too close to heat sources. 6% comes from cords or plugs and a whopping 44% is attributed to electrical distribution and lighting equipment. USFA recommends watering your tree every day to lower the chances of it drying out and making sure your tree is at least 3 ft away from heat sources like fireplaces, radiators, candles or heat vents. When your tree is dry, make sure to get rid of it!

Cooking fires are incredibly common. Thanksgiving is the peak day for home fires. Christmas Eve and Christmas Day follow closely behind. You can prevent kitchen fires by following safe cooking habits during the holidays. We’ve compiled a list of what you need to know.

• The use of turkey fryers is NOT safe. Using large amounts of oil at high temperatures can cause devastating burns.
• Stay in the kitchen to watch your food while cooking and check the turkey frequently.
• Keep flammable items such as oven mitts, potholders, food packaging and dish towels away from open heat sources.
• Children should stay 3 ft away from the stove.
• Make sure to keep the floor clear of tripping hazards such as bags or toys.
• Exercise caution when handling hot liquids and foods. Steam or splashes can cause serious burns.

Holiday Mishaps are avoidable!

How much liability coverage do you have?

The impending doom of a liability risk is scary, talking with your FMT agent about your liability coverage can ease your worry. Home insurance policies are usually equipped with liability coverage in case of an incident at your place of residence. Your coverage amount should be discussed with your agent to ensure you are properly covered. FMT Agents are the experts! They can discuss how much liability coverage you have, how much is allotted for dog bites and can give guidance on umbrella policies, if they’re needed and if they could be beneficial.

With all the holidays just around the corner, safety during this season is crucial. Whether you’re decorating, hosting or out trick-or-treating, taking a few extra precautions can help keep everyone safe. FMT is wishing you and your loved ones a fun, safe and happy Halloween! If you have any questions about your liability coverage or just want to make sure you’re fully protected, reach out to your local FMT agent. They’re always happy to help.

Helpful Resources

Trick-or-Treat Trouble? How to protect yourself from a Halloween mishap.

Halloween Liability Stats

• CNBC: How Halloween, Thanksgiving & Christmas Risks Affect Home Insurance

Preparing Your House for Holiday Visitors

• U.S. Fire Administration – Holiday Fire Prevention Tips
• NFPA: Christmas Tree Fire Statistics
• NFPA: Thanksgiving Fire Safety
• Johns Hopkins Medicine – Holiday Cooking Safety

Tips & Tricks Safety

• HealthyChildren.org – Halloween Safety Tips