Holiday Safety Tips for Florida Homeowners

Reprinted with permission… Happy Holidays!

Holiday Safety Tips for Florida Homeowners
From Kevin Hewitson at Hewitson Insurance Group

The holiday season is a wonderful time for celebration, family gatherings, and creating cherished memories. However, it also presents unique safety challenges, especially for Florida homeowners. Below, we provide practical tips to keep your home safe and secure during this festive season.

1. Humidity and Mold

Florida’s humid climate can foster mold growth, especially when homes are unventilated during travel or holiday events.
Tips:

• Keep indoor humidity below 60% using dehumidifiers.
• Regularly inspect for mold in damp areas and clean with appropriate solutions.
• Maintain airflow by setting your air conditioning to a low temperature when away.

2. Holiday Lights

Festive decorations bring joy but also pose fire hazards.
Tips:

• Inspect lights for damage before use.
• Use outdoor-rated lights for external displays and avoid overloading circuits.
• Always turn off lights when leaving home or going to bed.

3. Cooking Safety

The kitchen is a focal point during the holidays, making cooking-related fires a common concern.
Tips:

• Stay present while cooking.
• Keep flammable materials away from heat sources.
• Have a fire extinguisher readily available and know how to use it.

4. Home Security

Holidays often involve travel, leaving homes vulnerable to break-ins.
Tips:

• Lock all doors and windows.
• Invest in security systems or cameras for remote monitoring.
• Arrange for package deliveries to secure locations.

5. Candle Safety

Candles add a warm ambiance but can be a fire risk.
Tips:

• Place candles on stable, non-flammable surfaces.
• Never leave candles unattended.
• Use flameless candles as a safer alternative.

Additional Tips

• Pool Safety: Supervise children and pets and ensure safety barriers are in place.
• Pet Safety: Keep decorations and food out of reach and provide a quiet retreat for pets.
• Hurricane Preparedness: Be prepared for unexpected weather with emergency supplies and plans.

At Hewitson Insurance Group, we’re here to help you stay safe and protect your home during the holidays. If you have any questions or need assistance with insurance coverage, please feel free to contact us at 352-563-2323 or email me at kevinhewitson@Allstate.com.

Wishing you a joyful and safe holiday season!