December 03, 2020
The temperatures are dropping, snow is hitting the ground and holiday decorations are appearing in shops and neighborhoods.
The holidays are a busy time for many people and these holiday tips will help keep things going smoothly and prevent unwanted headaches:
- Avoid Falls
- Lights are a key part of decoration for many families. Whether you're putting up a few strings of lights or decorating in the style of the Griswold family, be sure to place your ladder on sturdy ground. If possible, have someone spot you from below, too.
- When setting up the ladder, it is recommended to have two rungs above the edge of the roof.
- Ensure that your decorations are secured properly to prevent anything falling onto people below.
- Prevent Fires
- Be careful with the number of extension cords you use, and read the wattage that each extension cord can handle. Not only can overuse raise your electricity bill, but it could also overheat and create a fire hazard.
- House fires are not uncommon during this time of the year. Don't use a staple gun or nails to affix extension cords or anything with electricity running through it. Where possible, employ power strips with a breaker switch so you can avoid drawing too much power and causing an outage or fire.
- If you have a live holiday tree, keep it well watered. This lessens the fire hazard and will keep your tree looking healthy - and you'll have fewer needles to clean up.
- Kitchen Safety
- Avoid cuts and burns. While carving turkey, ham or any other holiday meat, be sure to cut away from yourself.
- Pay attention. Being attentive in the kitchen is the best way to prevent burns from hot pots and pans, as well as cooking fires. Making a schedule for cooking may be a good idea to keep things flowing and organized.
- Look out for children and pets and make sure they stay safe while you're cooking. Although the holidays are about being together, keeping extra people out of the kitchen and clutter to a minimum can help prevent unwanted spills, burns and distractions.
- Let It Snow
- If you experience snow this holiday season, wear boots or shoes with slip-resistant material to help prevent a slip, trip or fall hazard.
- Keep an eye out if snow melts and re-freezes - black ice is common and very dangerous, especially if a second snow hides the ice from view.
- When shoveling snow, lift with your legs and not your back.
We hope you have a safe and happy holiday season. If at any time you need any assistance, please don't hesitate to reach out to your advisor.