The holiday season should be about celebration, not emergency repairs. In New Orleans, the mix of older homes, festive decorations, and cooler weather means homeowners need to take a few extra precautions to keep celebrations safe. A little preparation now can help you avoid accidents, fires, and costly damage during the busiest time of year. At Riverbend Renovation, we’ve seen how quickly a preventable mishap can ruin the holidays. Here are our top safety tips to keep your home – and your guests – safe this season.
Inspect Holiday Lights and Decorations
Old or damaged lights can be a fire hazard.
- Check cords for fraying, cracking, or exposed wires
- Use indoor-rated lights inside and outdoor-rated lights outside
- Avoid plugging too many strings into one outlet or extension cord
- Turn off all decorations before going to bed or leaving the house
Use Space Heaters Safely
Space heaters can help on chilly nights but must be used with care.
- Keep them at least 3 feet from curtains, bedding, and furniture
- Never leave them running unattended
- Plug them directly into a wall outlet – not an extension cord
- Choose models with automatic shut-off features
Protect Your Kitchen During Holiday Cooking
Cooking is the leading cause of holiday fires.
- Keep flammable items away from the stove
- Stay in the kitchen when frying, boiling, or broiling
- Keep a fire extinguisher handy and know how to use it
- Set timers to remind you when food is done
Check Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Detectors
Your alarms are the first line of defense.
- Test detectors monthly and replace batteries as needed
- Install detectors on every floor and near sleeping areas
- Replace any unit that’s more than 10 years old
Keep Entryways Clear and Dry
Holiday guests mean more foot traffic.
- Remove clutter from walkways
- Use non-slip mats at entrances to prevent falls
- Ensure exterior lighting is bright enough for visitors to see steps and paths
Secure Your Home When Traveling
Many families travel during the holidays, and an empty home can be a target.
- Set timers on lights to make it look occupied
- Ask a neighbor to collect mail and packages
- Double-check all locks on doors and windows
Celebrate Safely and Enjoy the Season
With a few simple precautions, you can keep your home safe and your holidays stress-free. Preventing accidents now means more time to enjoy family, friends, and festivities. 📞 Need pre-holiday home repairs or safety upgrades? Call Riverbend Renovation at (504) 215-8825 or visit www.riverbendrenovation.com