Holiday Safety Tips

For emergencies, call 9-1-1

Fix any leaks/drafts around doors and windows with caulk or weather-stripping.
Store firewood at least 20′ away from house to prevent fire spreading into home, keep mice, spiders and snakes out of your home.
Take inventory of items that rely on electricity. Plan for alternative power sources such as solar chargers or power banks. Have flashlights for every household member with extra batteries.
Have alternative plans for refrigerated medicines and power dependent medical devices.

Be Weather Wise: Learn the weather/climate risks for the area you are traveling to and know what to do before, during and after such events.
Stay off the road during and after a winter storm until it is safe to do so. Listen to your local authorities.
Try to travel during the day.
Tell someone the route you are taking and your estimated time of arrival.
When flying, check your flight status and check in times and airline rules before leaving.
Bring snacks and entertainment for children in case of airport or traffic delays.
Put your lights on timers when traveling so that your house does not look unoccupied.
Wait until you return home to post pictures on social media so that people do not know your home is vacant.
Do not place Christmas gifts in view of any windows.

Ice scraper
Jumper cables
Shovel
Gloves
Blankets for each person traveling in the vehicle
Emergency flares or reflectors
Rock salt or kitty litter
First aid kit
Non-perishable snacks
Full tank of gas
Extra wind shield wiper fluid
If you are traveling with a pet, bring emergency food, water, and a sweater for them.

Never leave a stove unattended. Turn off the burner if leaving the kitchen.
Move things that can burn away from the stove. This includes dishtowels, bags, boxes, paper and curtains.
In case of an oven fire, turn off the oven and keep the door closed until it’s cool.
Turn pot handles toward the back of the stove so no one can bump them or pull them off the stove.
Make sure you have a functioning smoke detector on each floor of the house. Check that the batteries are still operational.
If you plan on making cookies or muffins this holiday season, store
some of them in the freezer. Cookies are good for a few months and can be
eaten during an emergency. You can even add peanut butter, nuts, or other items
with protein for extra nutritional value. Click here to learn more.

Turn off holiday lights at night or when you leave the house.
Keep candles away from flammable materials.
Keep your Christmas Tree watered, don’t let your holiday tree dry out. https://youtu.be/xr6b9b8FYKk
Check the electrical cords on the decorations to make sure they are not damaged or frayed.
Use caution and have someone with you when using a ladder. Place the ladder on stable ground and wear shoes with traction.