The holiday season is here! It’s the perfect time to gather with family, friends, and coworkers to celebrate the spirit of the season. As we “deck those halls and trim those trees,” it’s easy to get swept up in the excitement of festive decor. But remember, you don’t need to go full Griswold to make your space merry and bright!

Over-the-top decorations can sometimes create a less-than-hospitable environment—not just visually but in terms of safety, too. Seasonal decor brings the magic of the holidays alive, but if not assembled carefully, it can become a real hazard. According to the National Fire Protection Association, from 2017 to 2021, electrical equipment was involved in 44% of home Christmas tree fires. Additionally, an average of 790 home fires are started annually from decorations (excluding Christmas trees). These fires led to injuries, fatalities, and millions in property damage.

At Lincoln County Farmers Mutual Insurance Company, we want to keep you off that list! By taking a few simple precautions, you can create a safe, joyful environment for everyone. Check out these tips to keep your family, friends, and coworkers safe this holiday season.

Holiday Decoration Safety Tips

• Opt for flame-resistant or flame-retardant decorations.
• Keep ceiling decorations clear of sprinklers and fire alarms.
• Never leave lit candles unattended and position them away from flammable materials.
• Avoid running extension cords through high-traffic areas, under rugs, or behind furniture.
• Use the proper size ladder to hang decorations, and ensure it’s in good condition before climbing.

Holiday Light Safety Tips

• Use lights specifically labeled for indoor or outdoor use as appropriate.
• Look for lights tested by safety organizations like UL or ETL.
• Replace damaged light strands or loose bulb connections.
• Follow manufacturer instructions on how many light strands you can safely connect.
• Use clips, not nails, to hang lights and avoid damaging cords.
• Plug outdoor lights into GFCI outlets to prevent shocks or electrocution.
• Always turn off holiday lights before leaving or going to bed.

Christmas Tree Safety Tips

• Choose artificial trees labeled “Fire Resistant.”
• If using a live tree, ensure it has fresh, green needles that don’t fall off easily.
• Place your tree at least three feet away from heat sources, like fireplaces or radiators.
• Keep the tree watered daily and remove it once it dries out.
• Check with local programs for tree recycling or disposal options.

Holiday Entertaining Safety Tips

• Keep children, pets, and flammable items away from lit candles.
• Stay in the kitchen while cooking to prevent accidents.
• Move flammable materials like oven mitts or food wrappers away from cooking areas.
• Set up turkey fryers at least 10 feet away from your home on a flat surface.

Taking a little extra time to implement these safety measures ensures your holidays sparkle and shine—without unwelcome surprises!

At Lincoln County Farmers Mutual Insurance Company, we’re proud to protect what matters most to you. For over 120 years, we’ve been a trusted part of the community, offering insurance solutions that help our policyholders feel secure. From our roots in Lincoln County, the expansion into Pike County, Warren County, and Montgomery County, to now serving all of Missouri, we’re here to inform, support, and protect.

Wishing you a joyful and safe holiday season! Stay tuned for more tips and resources to keep your home and workplace secure all year round.