The holiday season brings joy, tradition, and plenty of festive décor, but it also brings a surprising number of avoidable home hazards. Many of the most common holiday-related homeowners’ insurance claims come from simple decorating mistakes that can quickly turn into costly damage.

To help you celebrate safely, here are the top five holiday decorating risks and how to avoid them.

1. Electrical Fires from Lights and Cords

Holiday lights bring seasonal magic, but they also cause thousands of home fires each year.

Common risks include:

• Frayed or cracked light strands.
  
• Overloaded outlets.
  
• Indoor lights that are used outdoors.
  
• Extension cords hidden under rugs.
  

How to avoid this risk:

• Inspect all lights and replace damaged strands.
  
• Use UL-listed, LED lights as they run cooler.
  
• Match indoor/outdoor ratings correctly.
  
• Plug decorations into surge-protected power strips.
  
• Keep cords visible and untangled.
  

Homeowners insurance tip:
Fire damage is often covered, but prevention protects your home, wallet, and peace of mind.

2. Dry Christmas Trees That Can Ignite Quickly

A dry tree can go from glowing to blazing in seconds.

Signs your tree is too dry:

• Brittle needles.
  
• Dropping excessive needles.
  
• Cracking or dull branches.
  

How to avoid this risk:

• Choose a fresh tree and water it daily
  
• Keep it away from fireplaces and heating vents.
  
• Use low-heat LED lights
  
• Recycle the tree promptly after the holidays.
  

Homeowners Insurance reminder:
Tree fires are one of the most severe holiday hazards; proper care dramatically lowers the chance you’ll ever need to file a homeowners insurance claim.

3. Candle and Fireplace Accidents

Candles and cozy fires set the holiday mood, but they’re a leading cause of preventable home damage.

Risks include:

• Candles placed near greenery or window treatments.
  
• Pets or children knocking over candles
  
• Stockings or décor hung too close to fireplaces.
  

How to avoid this risk:

• Swap real candles for flameless LED alternatives
  
• Keep open flames at least one foot away from anything flammable.
  
• Use fireplace screens to block sparks.
  
• Never leave candles or fires unattended.
  

4. Slips, Trips, and Falls from Ladders and Décor

Many holiday injuries come from putting up lights or maneuvering around decorations.

Risks include:

• Unsteady ladders.
  
• Cords across walkways.
  
• Unsecured outdoor displays.
  

How to avoid this risk:

• Use a sturdy ladder with a spotter.
  
• Keep walkways clear and well-lit.
  
• Anchor inflatables and outdoor décor to prevent wind hazards.
  

Homeowners insurance Reminder:
Liability claims can arise if someone is injured on your property; decorating safely protects visitors and reduces risk.

5. Theft While Your Home Appears Unattended

Traveling for the holidays? Criminals often target homes that look unoccupied.

Risks include:

• Deliveries piling up outside your home.
  
• Dark, empty-looking homes.
  
• Posting travel plans online.
  

How to avoid this risk:

• Use smart light timers.
  
• Have a neighbor collect packages or mail.
  
• Keep blinds partially closed.
  
• Share holiday travel photos after you return.
  

Homeowners insurance insight:
Most policies cover theft, but good prevention reduces the likelihood of needing to use your homeowners’ insurance during the holiday season.

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