"Palos Verdes Home Safety"

3 Steps to a Safe Home

The holiday season is supposed to be a joyous time of the year. Yet, for some, the holiday season isn’t all that it is cracked up to be. Not only do holiday decorations pose a potential threat if they are not handled properly, but this special time of the year is also known to bring the thieves out of the woodwork. Combine this with the fact that the winter months can be quite harsh on a home and there are many steps that need to be taken in order to ensure a jolly holiday season.

Step #1: Prepare Your Home for the Winter Months

One of the most important steps you can take to keep yourself safe during the winter is to prepare your home for the harsh winter months ahead. Be sure to test your smoke alarms each month and to install smoke and carbon monoxide alarms in every level of your home. In addition, be certain to call a qualified heating contractor to inspect your furnace and heating system before you start it up. To keep your furnace operating efficiently and safely, don’t forget to clean or replace your furnace filters regularly.

Step #2: Decorate with Care

Decorating for the holidays is one of the most exciting parts of the holiday season, but it can also be quite dangerous if it is not handled with care. If you are climbing up a ladder, be sure to use one that is right for the job. In addition, when hanging outdoor lights, use plastic clips or insulated tape rather than nails or staples. This way, you can be certain the lights will not be damaged in the process. Before you start hanging your lights, however, make certain they are in good shape and that you are following the manufacturer’s recommendations. As a general rule of thumb, no more than three strands of lights should be connected. Furthermore, outdoor lights should only be used outside and indoor light should never be used outdoors.

Step #3: Keep Yourself Safe from Thieves

The holiday season is a tempting time of the year for thieves. After all, they are well aware that homes are filled with all kinds of goodies during this time of the year. In addition, for those who are desperate to find gifts for their loved ones, those who normally don’t steal can sometimes be pushed over the edge. To protect yourself from thieves, make certain to lock your doors and windows and to keep your presents out of sight. If you will be leaving to visit relatives for an extended period of time, ask someone to watch your house and place a television, a radio or some lights on a timer so it looks as if someone is home.

About the Author: John Allen sells Sarasota FL real estate, condos and investemnt properties. His websites have extensive information on Longboat Key homes, golf communities, downtown Sarasota condos and more.