The holiday season is in full swing. As we prepare by decorating our homes and finalizing details for socially distanced holiday gatherings, it is important for homeowners to acknowledge the increased risks the holiday season brings. Although most of these risks are covered by your homeowner’s policy, no one wants to be in the position to have to file an insurance claim. Here are some common incidents that homeowners should be aware of and what you can do to avoid them.
House Fires:
Cooking fires are the most common cause of house fires year-round. During the holidays, homeowners are more likely to be distracted as they entertain guests while cooking. If you are entertaining this year, make sure to keep your cooking area free from clutter and always use a cooking timer.
Candles are another common cause of house fires during the holidays. According to USFA, one-third of home decoration fires are started by candles. Always make sure to blow out candles before leaving the room or going to sleep, and keep them 12 inches away from anything that burns.
Christmas Trees also contribute to many holiday house fires. To avoid house fires caused by Christmas Trees, make sure to keep your tree at least 3 feet away from heat sources, such as, fireplaces, radiators, or space heaters. When using Christmas lights to decorate, make sure to follow the manufacturer’s instructions for how many light strands to connect. If you have a live Christmas tree, make sure to water it every day and remove it after Christmas.
Theft:
It probably does not come as a surprise that theft claims increase during the holiday season. Although, most homeowners policies cover theft and damage of personal property in the event of a break-in, having to file a claim during the holidays is the last thing anyone would want to do. To avoid theft, make sure to lock doors when you leave the house. Install outside lighting and consider getting a home security system. Make sure to bring packages inside as soon as possible after they are delivered. If you are traveling, consider asking a trusted neighbor to watch your property.
As you prepare for this joyful season, make sure to review your homeowner’s policy to ensure you have the coverage you need and follow these tips to protect your home and family.
