Christmas is the time of year to be merry, it can also be a time for home owners claims. In other words, is Christmas time just a big home insurance claim waiting to happen? It could be if you are not careful. According to NFPA, Christmas day is the record holder for fires started by candles. Of these record level of fires, over half are caused by candles being to close to flammable materials. Another source of a potential fire is your electrical sources. Many people overload electrical sockets during Christmas. According to the CPSC, you should not have more than three standard size sets of lights per single extension cord. When selecting an extension cord make sure it is rated properly. Lighting up the outside requires an outside rated extension cord.
I get a cut tree, that is safer right?
A real tree could be safer than an artificial tree, but it depends. If you are picking an artificial tree make sure that it is fire resistant. Picking a live tree could be a little more difficult. Make sure the tree is fresh with green intact needles. The needles should also be sticky and bend not break. When you have the tree in your home be sure to water it often. A dry tree can increase the chances of a fire. FEMA also suggest keeping your tree three feet away from radiators, vents, heaters and fireplaces. In other words any source that provides heat. Your tree should be a merry thing during Christmas, it shouldn’t be the cause of a home insurance claim.
So fire is the only thing I have to worry about right?
Fire is a major safety issue during Christmas, but it is not the only one. Christmas time can be dangerous for our four legged family members. The holiday season typically sees an increase in people in your home for gathers. This is a great time for you but could be a nightmare for your pets. Pets could become agitated and bite someone which would cause you a homeowners claim. Food during the holidays can also be dangerous for your pets. Remember that chocolate, grapes, vine fruits, onions and macadamia nuts can be dangerous to your pets. Christmas plants can cause a variety of issues ranging from stomach discomfort to death. Poinsettias, Holly, Mistletoe, and Ivy can all at a minimum cause your pet stomach discomfort. Keep these in mind when decorating your home.
Have a safe and happy holiday season.
We hope that everyone has a safe and happy holiday season. Hopefully, the tips above can help. If you want more tips remember to follow us on social media. We are active on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, and YouTube. If you have a questions you can always reach out to us via 412-344-2800 or our client center. We hope that this Christmas is a time to be merry, and not a time for home insurance claims.
