ARA team offers safety tips for the holiday season

This week’s column was written by Cam Kuhn, director of communications for the Arkansas Realtors Association.

It’s that time of year again: Temperatures are dropping, hot beverages are plentiful, and the holiday spirit is abundant.

While you prepare your lights and holidaythemed decor, there are some safety aspects that are always important to remember.

• If you’re going to decorate a live tree, keep it away from heat sources.

While live trees are a staple for the holiday festivities, they can also be a safety hazard.

Keep live trees clear of any heat sources such as fireplaces, heaters or candles, as the trees are flammable.

Also, be sure to water your live tree, as a dry tree can catch fire more easily.

• Double-check your holiday lights.

Be on the lookout for any loose connections, as well as frayed or tangled wires.

Avoid using nails and tacks to hang strings of lights, as this may damage the cords; hooks and staples are more ideal.

Also, be sure to turn off your lights before leaving the house or going to bed. This will remove any chance of something happening while you are not present or are sleeping.

• Don’t hang exterior lights or set up decorations by yourself.

Hanging the lights and setting up all the decor in the yard can be a family tradition.

However, it is best not to do this particular task alone. Electric shock, falling from heights and possible malfunctions can put you in danger.

Have that extra hand to hold the ladder, hand you materials and double check the electric circuits before installing and turning on lights or motorized decorations.

• Be aware of your surroundings while shopping.

The holidays, unfortunately, do see a rise in crime, specifically theft and robbery.

With darkness hitting at around 5 p.m. this time of year, always try to be aware of your surroundings, especially if you’re shopping alone.

Try not to park far from the entrance of the store or mall, and don’t carry cash. If you are buying gifts and aren’t shopping alone, ask your shopping partner to go get the car and pick you up at the front of the store.

Most certainly, lock your car, and don’t leave gifts and packages in sight unattended.

Happy holidays from all of us here at the Arkansas Realtors Association. Stay safe out there.

House to House is distributed by the Arkansas Realtors Association. For more information about homeownership in Arkansas, visit www.ArkansasRealtors.com.