The holiday season is in full swing. For most people, it will end rather uneventfully, with no major losses or problems. For an unlucky few, however, the holiday season brings accidents, losses, and in some cases, tragedy. No one wants to be a statistic this season. Continue reading to learn some of the biggest risks that come with the holiday season and the steps you can take to keep yourself and your loved ones safe.
Travel Safety
Winter weather can bring treacherous road conditions, not to mention congested highways full of drivers attending holiday parties and gatherings. Not to mention, there is a tremendous increase in alcohol-impaired driving between now and New Year’s Day. According to the National Safety Council, there are hundreds of traffic fatalities over the Christmas holidays and hundreds on New Year’s Day alone. Nearly one-third of those are attributed to alcohol. If you plan to travel, take the following precautions:
- Always buckle up, even for short trips
- Never drive impaired; designate a sober driver
- Avoid driving during times when more alcohol-impaired drivers may be on the roads
- Consider alternate routes when traffic is heavy, even if they take longer
- Never use a cell phone or other handheld device while driving
- Make sure your car’s maintenance is up-to-date
- Bring an emergency kit, blankets, and extra water in case of delays or car trouble
Fire Safety
Your home is the heart of all you do during the holiday season. It’s where you decorate, host parties, cook big meals, and spend time with the ones you love. Unfortunately, many of the activities that take place inside your home could also be putting it at risk. According to the National Fire Protection Association, December is the most common time of year for home fires involving candles. Not to mention, many homes overload their power circuits and extension cords, which can pose an additional hazard. The NFPA reports that firefighters respond to more than 200 fires every year that started with Christmas trees. What can you do?
- Never use candles near trees or within 12 inches of anything flammable
- Never leave candles burning unattended
- Never burn candles within reach of small children
- Only use sturdy candle holders
- Consider using flameless candles instead
- Keep fresh trees well-hydrated
- Do not use outdoor use lights inside, and vice versa
- Replace worn strands and broken bulbs
- Do not leave Christmas tree lights on when you leave home or go to bed
- Dispose of fresh trees after Christmas using a community recycling program
- Take a home inventory to submit to your insurance company in case of a fire
Giving Safety
‘Tis the season for giving. While it may bring you great joy, the process of purchasing and giving gifts is not without risk – especially when it comes to children. Before purchasing a gift for a child, check to ensure it is rated for the age of the child you are gifting it to. Some toys contain small parts that may be a choking hazard for young children. Also, check with the Consumer Product Safety Commission to ensure your gift has not been recalled for safety issues.
Crime Safety
There’s a bad apple in every bunch, and this is the time of year when Grinches are out in full force. From petty porch theft to stealing cars, crime doesn’t take a break for Christmas or New Years. This year, you can better protect yourself and your belongings using the following tips:
- Have deliveries sent to a designated pick-up location or a shipping locker (or)
- Request a signature on delivery
- Only park in well-lit areas
- Never leave valuable items in your vehicle
- Never leave your car running unattended, even for a minute
- Talk with your independent agent about affordable car insurance that includes comprehensive coverage for theft of your vehicle or broken glass from a break-in
