Preparing Your Home for Holiday Guests
Share:
Menu planning. Airport schedules. Making up spare beds. Activities to entertain visiting nieces and nephews. The list of things to do for your holiday guests is endless. Be sure that creating a safe home is on your list so all your planning and hard work isn’t interrupted by an accident that could have been prevented. The safety improvements you make for your guests will also help keep your family safe during the holidays and throughout the year. Here is an easy checklist to help guests both young and old safely enjoy their visit:
If young children are visiting:
- Plan ahead. Talk to any parents who may be bringing infants or toddlers to your home to see what childproofing items they can bring with them. While you may need to borrow a baby gate from a neighbor, your guests may be able to pack cabinet locks and doorknob covers in their luggage.
- Before visitors arrive, look around your home from a child’s point of view and make sure to store any potentially dangerous items such as matches, lighters, cleaners and chemicals out of children’s reach.
- Creating a safe sleep environment for infants is essential. Put babies to sleep alone on their backs and keep blankets, pillows and toys out of the crib.
- Preparing a holiday meal when children are around the house makes a hectic day even more challenging. Designate the area around the stove as a “kid-free zone” to keep curious children away from sharp knives, warm ovens and hot pans.
Safety for every guest:
- Bright outdoor lights not only make your guests feel welcome when they arrive, but they also reduce the risk of falls.
- The bath can be a hot spot for injuries. Put non-slip mats in the bathtub and consider installing grab bars in the shower to help prevent falls for visitors of every age. Store medicines and cleaners in a locked cabinet.
- When visitors arrive, be sure to talk to them about your family’s emergency escape plan. Let them know where you keep fire extinguishers and first-aid kits.
- Ask guests to help remind you to turn off all holiday decorations and blow out candles before going to sleep.
- Place nightlights in hallways and guestrooms to help guests navigate safely at night.
- In case an accident happens, post emergency numbers near the phone. Make sure the list is visible, and point it out to guests.
Once you’ve taken a few minutes to look out for safety, you can relax and enjoy the time with family and friends.
