It is often stressful to host family and friends for busy holiday gatherings. Planning and preparing the meals, decorations and comfort of your guests can take its toll, but carelessness can also cause unnecessary accidents and injuries. It’s important to take your time in preparing your home and delicious seasonal traditions. Avoid costly injuries, illnesses and damages by following proper safety guidelines. It is easy to be caught up in the hustle and bustle of the holiday season, which is why emergency rooms can fill up during December and early January.
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, clostridium perfringens is the second-most common bacterial cause of food poisoning. Outbreaks occur most often around the holidays and meat and poultry accounted for 92 percent of outbreaks with an identified single food source. It is recommended to always use a food thermometer to guarantee that foods are cooked to a safe-to-eat temperature.
Home fires also occur at a higher frequency during the winter months and especially around the holidays when large meals are being prepared or a candle is knocked over during a dinner party. It’s a good idea to keep a fire extinguisher in the kitchen in the case of a turkey emergency. Teach all members of the household how to use it and ensure it is not expired. Also be sure that all smoke alarms in the home are in working condition with fresh batteries.
Another way to avoid a home fire is to never leave food on the stove or in the oven unattended. Always keep children away from the stove and any hot food or liquids, which can spill and cause injury. The kiddos should be assigned to other tasks if they insist on helping, such as taking guests’ coats or removing bags from entrances, which can cause people to trip and fall.
You should also conduct a quick review of your home insurance policy to find out what kind of property and liability coverage you have before hosting that holiday party. Knowledgeable, independent agents at United Insurance Agency can help identify any gaps in your current coverage, suggest ways in which you can save on your premium, and even assist you in finding a better policy. Contact us to find out more about a home insurance policy that can protect your home during this holiday season and beyond.
