It is officially that time of year when our homes start glowing with twinkling lights, wreaths on every door, and someone in the neighborhood inevitably attempts a Clark Griswold-level display. Even though we live in sunny San Diego, where winter is more flip-flops than snow boots, holiday decor can still bring real safety hazards if you are not careful.
A friend of mine recently reminded me of this in a funny but eye-opening way. She is one of the sweetest people you will ever meet, but the holidays turn her into a walking safety manual. She once called me while plugging in her Christmas tree lights and said, “Is it normal for me to feel like this whole thing is going to burst into flames?” We laughed, but she had a point. Between dry trees, tangled lights, and candles everywhere, December is one of the busiest months for household fires. A little caution goes a long way.
Here are some practical Christmas safety tips to help keep your home festive, cozy, and most importantly, safe this season.
Choose the Right Tree and Keep It Hydrated
If you love a real tree, great news. They smell amazing, bring that classic Christmas feel, and look beautiful in a living room. The important thing is to keep it hydrated. A dry tree can ignite in seconds. When you shop, look for a tree with fresh green needles that do not fall off when you gently run your fingers through the branches. Once you bring it home, trim a little off the trunk so it can absorb water more easily, and make sure your tree stand is always filled. Check it daily. A well-watered tree is far less likely to become a fire hazard.
Artificial trees are a popular choice in SD too, especially since many families like to put them up early. If you go that route, choose one labeled fire-resistant. It does not make the tree fireproof, but it does add helpful protection.
More detailed Christmas tree safety tips here ℅ the San Diego Fire Rescue.
Inspect Your Lights Before You Hang Them
Holiday lights bring instant magic, but they are also one of the most common sources of electrical issues. Before you hang anything, take a few minutes to inspect each strand. Look for cracked cords, broken bulbs, or loose connections. Toss anything that looks worn out. It is not worth the risk.
Use indoor-rated lights inside and outdoor-rated lights outside. If you mix them up, you may overload a circuit or damage the lights. Also, avoid plugging too many strands into one outlet. It can be tempting when you are trying to make the house look like a Hallmark movie, but circuits can only handle so much.
Be Smart With Extension Cords
Extension cords are helpful during the holidays, but they should be used carefully. Keep cords away from heat sources, do not run them under rugs, and avoid placing them in walkways where someone might trip. If you plan on using cords outdoors, make sure they are approved for outdoor use and are not sitting in puddles or exposed to sprinklers.
Place Decorations Wisely
Holiday decor has a way of spreading across a house like glitter at a preschool craft table. Before things get too festive, look around your home for potential hazards. Keep decorations, especially flammable items, away from fireplaces and heaters. Stockings hanging near an open flame may look adorable, but they can ignite quickly.
If you have pets or little ones, check that tabletop decorations are secure and not made with small pieces that can become choking hazards. I once had a cat who treated hanging ornaments like a personal challenge and knocked them down every chance he had. We eventually switched to shatterproof ornaments on the bottom half of the tree, which saved us a lot of drama.
Burn Candles Safely or Try Alternatives
Candles instantly make a home feel warm and cozy, especially during the holidays. Just be smart about where you place them. Keep candles at least a foot away from anything that might catch fire, place them on stable surfaces, and never leave them burning when you leave the house or go to bed.
If you want ambiance without the risk, battery-operated candles have come a long way. Some even flicker like the real thing.
Check Your Smoke Alarms Before the Celebrations Begin
This is a great time of year to check your smoke alarms and replace old batteries. It takes less than five minutes and can literally save lives. Test each alarm, make sure it is working properly, and look at the date on the unit. If it is more than ten years old, it is time for a replacement.
Do a Quick Outdoor Safety Check
Even in North County, winter brings rain and cooler nights. Make sure your outdoor cords are raised off the ground and protected from water. Secure inflatables and large decorations so they do not blow into walkways on windy evenings.
If you are planning outdoor gatherings, check that paths and patios are well-lit to keep guests safe as they come and go.
Enjoy a Merry and Safe Holiday Season
Decorating for Christmas should be fun, not stressful. A few simple precautions can reduce your risk of accidents and help your home stay safe all season long. Whether you are lighting up a condo in Oceanside, a family home in San Marcos, or a cozy apartment in Carlsbad, a little preparation makes a big difference.
If you ever need guidance about home safety, maintenance, or preparing your home for the holidays or a future sale, feel free to visit our blog.
