Dangerous December

 

When you’re celebrating with family and friends, it’s easy to forget about safety hazards. Statistics show that the number of home accidents soars during holiday time: In 2005, 13 percent of candle fires for the year occurred in December—almost twice the 8 percent monthly average!

To help keep your December delightful, here are a few reminders about dangers that are easy to overlook:

 

·          Before a party, test your smoke alarms and let guests know what your fire escape plan is.

 

·          Keep candles away from decorations and other combustible materials. Never display lighted candles in windows or near exits. Unattended cooking is the leading cause of home fires. Remember to keep an eye on the stove when cooking for holiday visitors.

 

·          After a party, always check on, between, and under upholstery and cushions and inside trash cans for cigarette butts that may be smoldering.

 

·          Keep children and pets away from light strings and electrical decorations, and turn all holiday lights and decorations off before leaving the house or going to bed.

 

You might also consider giving yourself the gift of lifesaving abilities: Enroll in a first aid or CPR course so you’ll be ready to act if an emergency pops up.

Source: NFPA's "Home Candle Fires " report by Marty Ahrens, September 2007.

 

 

*Discounts and credits are available where state laws and regulations allow and may vary by state. To the extent permitted by law, applicants are individually underwritten; not all applicants may qualify. Coverage provided and underwritten by Liberty Mutual Insurance Company and its affiliates, 175 Berkeley Street, Boston, MA. A consumer reporting agency and/or motor vehicle report, on all drivers listed on your policy, may be obtained where state laws and regulations allow. California Department of Insurance license number 0F52987.

 

 

 

These tips brought to you by Liberty Mutual Group and the AICPA Auto and Homeowners Insurance Program. The AICPA Auto and Homeowners Insurance Program offers competitive rates and superior service to AICPA members. For more information, or to request a quote, call toll-free 1-866-92-AICPA (1-866-922-4272).

 

Reprinted with permission from Liberty Mutual.  2008 Liberty Mutual Group.  All rights reserved.


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