Considerations for a Safe Holiday Season

The holiday season is a magical time of year in New York, filled with excitement, celebration, and festive cheer. It is also one of the busiest, from holiday gatherings to decorating and holiday shopping. The hustle of the season can introduce unexpected risks.

To ensure a safe holiday season, homeowners need to be aware of fire safety, responsibly maintain their properties during the winter months when inclement weather can potentially make walking hazardous, and guard against
potential liability.

Consider the following topics:

Be Aware of Fire Prevention Safety
Homeowners should be vigilant and take fire prevention seriously. Christmas trees, candles, and decorative lights are potential fire hazards. According to the National Fire Prevention Agency, between 2018 and 2022, fire departments in the United States responded annually to an average of 155 home fires that started with a Christmas tree. According to the Agency, it is important to place a tree at least 3 feet away from any heat source, including a fireplace, heat vents, or candles; water it daily; use any decorative lights in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions; and discard any broken or damaged light sets. Likewise, it is important to not overload electrical outlets and ensure that your outdoor lights and extension cords are safe for outdoor use. It is also important to promptly dispose of the tree after removing it from the home.

Make Sure Your Property Is Safe
Homeowners should always maintain their properties, especially during the icy and snowy winter months. Homeowners could be sued if someone (e.g., a neighbor, mail carrier, friend, delivery driver, or even a family member) slips and falls on or adjacent to and/or near their property. If a homeowner is found liable for the injuries sustained in a slip-and-fall accident on their property, they could be subject to monetary damages. Homeowners should – among other things – promptly shovel and salt sidewalks, walkways, driveways, and stairs to prevent slippery conditions and ensure the property is well-lit to help others see potentially slippery conditions.

Alcohol Consumption at Holiday Gatherings
Depending on the circumstances, a homeowner could potentially be liable for an accident or injury that occurred as a result of alcohol consumed at a holiday gathering at their home. For instance, a host could be subject to litigation if a guest who consumed alcohol at their home later caused a traffic collision. It is important for homeowners to monitor alcohol consumption at holiday gatherings.

This article appeared in the December 2024 issue of Stroll Lloyd Harbor.