Prepping your home for the holidays - it's not just about the turkey!

With the days getting shorter and winter weather starting to settle in, one of the things almost all North Dakotans anticipate is holiday gatherings – even if they are smaller this year. While food, decorations, and gifts are a priority to plan, you also should make sure your home is ready to celebrate safely.

Here are things to consider when planning for the holidays:

·        Clear the snow and ice from driveways and sidewalks. The last thing you want is someone slipping and injuring themselves before they even get to your front door. Inspect your driveway and sidewalk for patches of ice and clear away any new snowfall. Sprinkling salt or sand over walkways and driveways will help both cars and people gain traction and make the approach to your home safe. Don’t forget the front porch; steps can be especially hard to navigate when they are slippery. Consider temporary lighting to assist guests entering your home or property.

·        Keep watch on your floors and traffic-ways in your home. Snowy footwear can leave slippery puddles in your entry and stairs. Spilled food or drinks could also create a hazard. Make a plan for coats and other possessions your guests bring to make sure you lessen the risk of a slip or fall.

·        Use caution with candles and heat sources. While candles and other open lighting can add to the holiday’s festive mood, they also can be a risk for accidental contact or tipping. Especially with young children whose excitement could quickly cause an unfortunate fire accident. And with hosting children…

·        Make your home child-safe.  Look for small objects a baby might choke on and clear them from the floor or low tables. Ensure medications and cleaning products are kept out of reach and close the doors to bedrooms or unsafe areas like laundry rooms.

·        Be a responsible host when it comes to serving alcohol.  Make certain no one leaves your home intoxicated and gets behind the wheel of a car. Don’t be afraid to take someone’s keys if necessary. There are a number of options for getting home safely including ride sharing services. Offer to purchase the Uber or Lyft. Consider staying sober yourself so you can remain responsible and in control of the situation – and offer your couch as an alternative when all else fails.

No one wants their holidays ruined by an accident either at your home or after your guests have left. A good host provides more than fun and refreshments; providing a safe place for guests of all ages to celebrate the holidays and ensuring everyone gets home safely are necessities as well. Not only will you throw a party that is remembered only for fun and holiday cheer, you can avoid having a holiday memory attached to an event you wish hadn’t happened.

And if you have questions about your liability policy and protection, it is always a good idea to check with your Nodak Insurance agent to make sure you have the protection you and your family need. On behalf of all of us at Nodak Insurance, have a fun and festive holiday season!