Safety First – Fall Decorating

As fall and Halloween approach, decorating your home can be fun, but it’s important to keep safety in mind. Here are some easy tips to help you decorate safely:

Use Safe Materials

When picking decorations, make sure they’re fire-resistant, especially if they’ll be near candles or lights. Instead of real candles, use battery-operated ones to reduce the risk of fire, especially around pumpkins, dry leaves, or fabric decorations.

Secure Outdoor Decorations

Outside, make sure your decorations are anchored down, especially if it’s windy. Keep walkways clear of decorations that could cause someone to trip, and secure any cords from lights or inflatables so no one trips on them.

Be Careful with Ladders

If you need to use a ladder for hanging decorations, make sure it’s on flat ground, and always have someone hold it steady. Don’t lean too far, and move the ladder as needed to avoid accidents.

Clear Walkways

For trick-or-treaters or guests, make sure walkways are well-lit and clear of obstacles. Use outdoor lights to brighten paths, and make sure cords are tucked away safely.

Pumpkin Carving Tips

Carving pumpkins is fun, but can be dangerous. Use pumpkin carving tools, not kitchen knives, and always supervise kids. Consider decorating pumpkins with paint or markers instead. If you use real candles in pumpkins, make sure they’re on a stable surface, or opt for battery-operated candles instead.

Electrical Safety

For homes with lights and other electrical decorations, check for damaged wires or plugs before using them. Don’t overload outlets, and use extension cords that are safe for outdoor use. Always unplug decorations when they’re not in use.

Get the Whole Family Involved

Decorating is safer and more fun when the whole family helps. Assign tasks like holding the ladder or clearing walkways to make sure everyone stays safe.

By following these simple tips, you can enjoy a fun and safe fall and Halloween season!