Tips for Hosting a Safe Party during the Holidays

While the holiday season is a time for celebration and joyful gatherings, safety measures should be at the top of any holiday preparation list. Below are several safety guidelines that will help those who are planning a holiday party to keep everyone safe:

• Having a fire escape plan. When guests are coming over, the hosts should tell them about their family’s fire escape plan. Tips on how to make one can be found here.
• Asking guests to smoke outside. Large, deep ashtrays should be provided in the smoking area and smokers must be reminded to keep their smoking materials away from young children.
• Using safety tested and approved electric lights. All strings should be checked and any broken bulb sockets, frayed wiring or loose connections must be discarded or repaired.
• Food safety: food should not sit at room temperature for more than 2 hours. If the temperature is above 30 degrees Celsius, food can be left out in the room for only 1 hour.
• All guests must be comfortable with the pets in the home and vice versa. Pets can be kept in a closed room or elsewhere if they don’t interact well with the guests.
• Being mindful when serving alcohol to guests. The host should not allow inebriated guests drive after the party. A good idea is to have a designated driver (who won’t consume alcohol) for each group. Plenty of food should be offered to guests to diminish the effects of alcohol.
• When the party is over, homeowners should ensure fireplaces and candles are extinguished. Any unnecessary appliances should be turned off and any potential hazards, such as sharp or flammable objects, must be gathered and put in a safe place.

More general fire safety tips can be found here. Check out this article to learn heating equipment fire safety tips. The PuroClean team stands ready to provide professional restoration services to any property affected by fire, water or mould damage.

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