The holiday season brings warmth, joy, and time spent with the people who matter most. But with all the decorating, cooking, hosting, and celebrating, it’s also a time when safety should be top of mind. Whether you're cozying up at home or welcoming friends and family, a few simple precautions can make sure your holidays stay merry—and disaster-free.

At TeamBuilder Residential, we care deeply about the wellbeing of the families in our community. Here are our top holiday home safety tips to keep your home safe, bright, and worry-free all season long.

🎄 1. Christmas Tree Safety: Keep the Magic, Avoid the Hazards

If you have a real tree:

• Choose one with fresh, flexible needles.
  
  
• Water it daily—dry trees are a major fire risk.
  
  
• Keep it away from fireplaces, heaters, and heat vents.
  
  

If you have an artificial tree:

• Look for a “fire-resistant” label.
  
  
• Ensure the stand is stable and won’t tip easily.
  
  

Lights:

• Only use UL-listed lights.
  
  
• Replace any with frayed cords or loose bulbs.
  
  
• Turn lights off when you’re not home or asleep.
  
  

🔌 2. Electrical Safety: Smart Decorating Matters

The holidays often mean more lights, more décor, and more electronics plugged in at once.

To stay safe:

• Avoid overloading outlets or power strips.
  
  
• Use outdoor-rated extension cords for outside lights.
  
  
• Keep cords away from high-traffic areas and under rugs.
  
  
• Set timers so lights turn off automatically.
  
  

A good rule of thumb: If a cord feels hot, unplug it immediately.

🕯️ 3. Candle Safety: Cozy, Not Risky

Candles add ambiance, but they’re also one of the most common holiday fire hazards.

Stay safe by:

• Keeping candles at least 12 inches from anything flammable.
  
  
• Never leaving a burning candle unattended.
  
  
• Using flameless LED candles for a safer alternative—especially with kids or pets.
  
  
• Placing candles on sturdy, heat-resistant surfaces.
  
  

🍳 4. Kitchen Safety: Cooking with Care

With big holiday meals comes a busy kitchen. Most house fires start here—so extra attention goes a long way.

Tips to keep your kitchen safe:

• Keep pot handles turned inward.
  
  
• Never leave the stove unattended while cooking.
  
  
• Keep a fire extinguisher within reach (and know how to use it).
  
  
• Avoid wearing loose sleeves when cooking.
  
  
• Keep kids and pets out of high-traffic cooking areas.
  
  

❄️ 5. Winter Weather Safety: Prepare Your Home

Cold weather can bring its own risks.

Make sure to:

• Have your furnace serviced for winter.
  
  
• Replace carbon monoxide and smoke detector batteries.
  
  
• Keep walkways salted and clear of ice.
  
  
• Know how to shut off your water in case of frozen pipes.
  
  
• Check space heaters—it’s recommended they be at least 3 feet away from anything flammable.
  
  

🏡 6. Home Security: Protect Your Home During Holiday Travel

If you’re traveling this season, protect your home with a few simple steps:

• Use smart plugs or timers to make lights turn on and off.
  
  
• Pause mail and package deliveries—or ask a neighbor to pick them up.
  
  
• Avoid posting travel plans on social media until you return.
  
  
• Double-check door and window locks before leaving.
  
  

Small actions make a big difference in deterring unwanted visitors.

🧸 7. Holiday Hosting Safety: Make Your Home Kid- and Pet-Friendly

If you’re hosting guests, especially little ones:

• Secure furniture that can tip.
  
  
• Keep breakable ornaments out of reach.
  
  
• Use fireplace screens to prevent burns.
  
  
• Store household cleaners and medications safely.
  
  
• Ensure walkways are clutter-free.
  
  

A safe home makes celebrations more relaxing for everyone.

💡 8. Fireplace & Heating Safety

Nothing beats a cozy fire, but be sure to:

• Have chimneys inspected annually.
  
  
• Use dry, seasoned wood.
  
  
• Never leave a fire unattended.
  
  
• Keep stockings and décor away from heat sources.
  
  
• Dispose of ashes only after they’ve fully cooled.
  
  

🎁 A Safe Season Is a Happy Season

The holidays are a time for joy, connection, and creating memories. By taking a few thoughtful precautions, you can ensure your home stays safe—and your holiday season stays stress-free.

From all of us at TeamBuilder Residential, we wish you a warm, wonderful, and safe holiday season. If you need trusted advice about buying, selling, or maintaining your home during the winter months, we’re always here to help.