It’s time to deck the halls, put up the tree, and try to out-illuminate your neighbors! But getting ready for the holidays means keeping your family and home safe, as well. Here are some ways to gain some peace of mind while you’re spreading peace on earth this season:
- Turn it off. The lights look beautiful. They really do. But even the safest, coolest-burning lights can cause a fire with the tiniest spark. Turn them off during the day, when you’re not home, and before bedtime. Set them on a timer if you forget in the holiday hustle and bustle.
- One and done. It’s so tempting. We get it. But never connect more than one string of lights together, never connect an extension cord to another extension cord, and never overload an outlet. All it takes is one spark to turn your family holiday into a disaster.
- Use gas fireplaces safely. If the glass panel covering your gas fireplace is cracked, broken, or otherwise damaged, do not use the fireplace until it has been inspected and repaired by a professional. This could increase your risk for carbon monoxide poisoning. If you burn wood in your fireplace/stove, be sure to have your chimney inspected/cleaned by a qualified person annually. You can never tell what may have gotten in our chimney during the summer.
- Get smart. There are many products on the market that allow you to monitor and control the temperature, fixtures, and security of your home from the convenience of your smartphone. From your phone, you can:
- Lock and unlock entry doors
- Turn on or off lights to deter burglars
- Monitor temperature and carbon monoxide sensors
- Monitor water temperatures to prevent busted or broken pipes
- Install home video surveillance. Even if determined baddies get by the rest of your smart home security, you can catch them in the act with good-quality video surveillance cameras. Motion sensors can catch perps in the act and many systems can automatically alert law enforcement authorities when people enter your home uninvited. John Waters Inc. can help with installation of these items.
- Do not overload extension cords. The best situation for decorations and trees is to avoid extension cords altogether. If that is not possible, only use ONE cord, not multiples. Too many cords and result in an electrical fire. Guideline: one cord, no longer than 5-6 feet long.
Call us to install your new smart home security system, inspect and service your heating system, and make sure your home is safe from energy-draining leaks and drafts.
Wishing you and yours a happy and healthy holiday season!
