The Do’s and Don’ts of Holiday Safety, According to Classic Movies

Last month, we took a comical look at a serious subject – fire and safety hazards associated with Thanksgiving. We’ve got holiday fun on our minds again this month, of course, and this time we want to make sure your holiday is all fa-la-la and not fa-la-yikes. 

What better way than to revisit some of the lessons from our fave holiday movies? These are the do’s and don’t of seasonal safety, as revealed by five classic films.

Don’t Pull an Elf

Flinging yourself to the top of your gigantic Christmas tree to hang lights might sound like fun to Buddy the Elf, but it’s obviously a terrible idea from a safety standpoint (as is cutting down a tree from a public park). Christmas trees pose a number of hazards. Here’s how to avoid a tree-related disaster:

  • When purchasing a live, pre-cut tree, look for one that is fresh – not readily dropping needles.

  • If cutting your own, make sure to bring gloves, safety goggles and a sharp saw. Have family members stand back when you’re sawing.

  • Secure the tree carefully in your vehicle – avoid becoming a road hazard!

  • If you have a pre-lit artificial tree, check to make sure all light wires are intact (not fraying or, yikes, chewed by animals) before you plug it in.

  • Make sure you have an appropriate stand that won’t allow the tree to tip over.

  • Be cautious when decorating – don’t lean on the tree OR fling yourself at the top of it.

  • Keep kids and pets at a safe distance from the tree, especially if using breakable ornaments.

  • Water live trees daily.

  • Make sure all decorations and artificial trees are fire-resistant. 

  • Turn off tree lights when you’re sleeping or away from home.

Don’t Turn Into Clark Griswold

The foibles of the main character of National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation as he attempts to hang thousands of lights on his house make for hilarious comedy, but are absolutely NOT something anyone wants to emulate. Here’s what to do instead:

  • Always have a spotter when using a (sturdy) ladder to hang lights.

  • Test lights before hanging and make sure none is frayed or chewed.

  • Be cautious when using staples or nails around electrical wires. (Also, avoid stapling yourself to the roof.)

  • Don’t overload extension cords. Never connect more than three light sets. Make sure the lights you’re using are rated for outdoor use.

  • Consider LED lights to cut electricity use and costs. (Looking to save money this season? The right insurance policy could help.)

  • For enhanced fire safety, replace candles with battery-operated LEDs.

Don’t Recreate Home Alone

It goes without saying that you shouldn’t accidentally leave a family member at home when you go on a big holiday vacation. But during this busy time of year, it’s also important to remember to secure your home and your belongings when you’re away. Our top tips for home security any time of the year?

  • Lock doors.

  • Keep a few lights on. Have a timer for your lights? Even better.

  • Arm alarms, if you have them.

  • Keep valuables out of sight.

  • Avoid placing recognizable packaging for big-ticket items out with recycling or trash.

Do Remember the Lessons of It’s a Wonderful Life and A Charlie Brown Christmas

As much as we want your stuff to be protected this season, we also think it’s important to remember that holidays are about gratitude for and gathering with our family and friends. Do focus on simple, meaningful experiences with those you love. 

Happy Holidays from all of us at Lines Insurance! (If you need help figuring out what insurance policies can best protect the one you love this season and always, drop us a line.)

Lily Derrick