Avoid Potential Disasters with These Holiday Hacks

This holiday season you want festivities filled with fun, family, and fab food…not insurance claims. Unfortunately, with each holiday season comes the potential for disaster. As you celebrate this season, keep the following in mind. It may not help with in-law issues, but it will, at least, give you peace of mind.

Cooking: According to the National Fire Protection Association, cooking is the leading cause of residential fires in the U.S. From deep-fried turkeys to pie bake-a-thons to reheating contributions to potluck suppers, cooking for the holidays offers the potential for kitchen fires. To improve your odds, closely monitor long cook times and take precautions to avoid spillovers.

Decorations: Festive decorations can also be fire hazards. Don’t leave candles unattended, especially with young kids around, and plan to clean out your fireplace by Thanksgiving. Water your Christmas tree often, don’t use lights with frayed wires, and don’t overload outlets.

Theft: The holidays are busy times for everyone, including thieves. Take steps to protect your property and your finances. Check your credit card statements and remain vigilant for cyber criminals. Protect more expensive purchases by placing them in a safe rather than under the tree. Also, check your homeowners insurance to make sure purchased gifts are covered; for high-value items, you may need to add a rider to your policy.

Finally, if Santa brings you something nice, don’t forget to add it to your home inventory for potential fire or robbery claims. And enjoy your peace of mind this holiday season.