Take these precautions to stay safe during holidays
Twinkling lights, a crackling fireplace, homecooked meals with your favorite family and friends — there’s a lot to love about the holiday season. There are also precautions to take and necessary maintenance needed to keep you and your home safe, whether you’re playing host or spending some time away.
The kitchen is the heart of the house. It’s also where home fires are most likely to start, according to the American Red Cross.
There are a few ways you can reduce the risk: Unplug appliances when you aren’t using them and don’t ever put metal in the microwave. Exercise caution when using a deep fryer, and keep a fire extinguisher on hand at all times in case of an emergency. Finally, keep your appliances clean, and don’t hesitate to call in an extra pair of hands if you need assistance getting everything in tip-top shape. Homeowners pay an average of $170 to hire a maid service,
Careful cooking:
according to the Angie’s List Pricing Guide.
Prioritize decor safety:
Peppermint, cinnamon, fresh pine needles — candles brighten up a room in sight and smell, but make sure to place them on a sturdy surface and put them out before bed. Also, be aware of the lights you’re hanging: Are they indoor only? Have they been tested by a regulatory agency? Avoid the risk of fire or electrical shock by inspecting your lights and only using them as directed. If you don’t feel safe climbing a ladder to hang them outside, or if you aren’t sure about the type of lights you need, a professional can help. According to the Angie’s List Pricing Guide, homeowners report paying about $405 for professional holiday light installation.
Is it taking longer for your clothes to dry in every cycle? Does your laundry room seem suddenly, excessively hot? These are symptoms of a clogged dryer vent, which is a
Clean dryer vents:
serious fire hazard. Familiarize yourself with the other signs of buildup, and call in a professional to inspect your vents. The average national cost of this service is $130, homeowners report via the Angie’s List Pricing Guide, which is well worth the peace of mind and preservation of property the cleanup provides.
Update fire alarms:
You’re likely familiar with the sound your fire alarm makes when the battery is dying: The high-pitched chirping can reverberate throughout your house.
But take note: The U.S. Fire Administration advises homeowners that the type of smoke detector you have determines how often you need to replace the batteries, and fire alarms themselves have a shelf life. Test your fire alarms often and replace the batteries at least once a year. If you have high ceilings, or if your smoke alarms are in hard-to-reach places, a handyman can help. Homeowners report paying an average of $80 per hour to have smoke detectors installed.