It’s that festive time of the year, and who doesn’t love decking out their apartment for the holidays? But before you dive into the holiday decorating spirit, let’s talk about a few things to keep in mind. We want to make sure your holiday cheer doesn’t turn into a safety concern, especially if your apartment space is a bit tight.
To ensure a seamless and stress-free experience, here are some valuable tips for avoiding holiday decoration disasters in your apartment.
Choosing the Perfect Christmas Tree
Let’s start with the star of the show – the Christmas tree. Did you know that apartment fires caused by Christmas trees do a whopping five times more damage than fires from other causes? Yikes! To keep things safe, choose a healthy tree and take good care of it. Don’t leave it up for more than two weeks to avoid it becoming a fire hazard.
Now, I get it – you’re excited to put up that tree as soon as possible. But if you’re planning a party in early December, think twice. Having a tree up for too long is a big no-no. So, plan ahead and schedule the takedown for two weeks after it goes up.
When shopping for a tree, give it a little shake. If it’s shedding needles like crazy, it’s too dry. Skip it and find a fresher one. Freshly cut trees have a stronger pine smell and a stickier trunk. Once you’ve got the perfect tree, keep it away from heat sources, put it in water, and make sure it stays hydrated.
Now, if you’re going the artificial route, make sure it’s flame retardant. And even though it can handle some warmth, keep it away from electric heaters and fireplaces, just to be safe.
Also make sure it’s securely anchored in its stand. A toppled tree not only causes a mess but can also pose safety hazards. Ensure the tree is stable before decorating it with ornaments and lights.
Decorate with Caution this Holiday Season
I know, I know – you’ve got a ton of decorations you want to show off. But hold on a sec. If some of them are a bit on the flammable side, keep them away from anything that generates heat, like candles. Candles and holiday scents add warmth to your apartment but prioritize fire safety. Never leave candles unattended and consider flameless LED candles as a safer alternative.
String lights are a holiday staple, but be mindful of where you place them. Avoid overloading electrical outlets and use extension cords strategically to prevent tripping hazards. Additionally, consider LED lights for a safer and more energy-efficient option.
If you’re lucky enough to have a fireplace, go ahead and hang those stockings, but do it with care. Make sure they’re positioned safely to avoid any unwanted holiday surprises.
Lastly, when hanging decorations, explore adhesive alternatives to avoid damage to your walls. Command strips and hooks are great options for securing wreaths, stockings, and other festive items without leaving behind unsightly marks.
Pet-Proof Precautions
If you have furry friends, take precautions to pet-proof your decorations. Skip fragile ornaments that might shatter easily and opt for pet-friendly alternatives. Keep in mind that tinsel and certain plants can be harmful to pets if ingested.
By approaching holiday decoration with careful planning and consideration, you can create a festive and inviting atmosphere in your apartment without succumbing to common pitfalls.
Decorating your apartment should be a blast, not a hassle. Enjoy the festive mood, but take a few extra moments to think about safety. We want your holidays filled with joy, not unexpected events. Cheers to a happy and safe holiday season!