When prevention makes all the difference: tips for worry-free celebrations

The festive season is synonymous with warmth, togetherness and shared moments. However, between decorations, festive cooking and a lively home, a few careless moments can quickly spoil the holiday spirit. Here are some simple, practical tips to help you enjoy the festivities with complete peace of mind.

Securing your home during the festive season

During the holidays, absences from home are often more frequent and sometimes longer than usual. To reduce risks, a few simple habits can make all the difference. Using timers, for example, allows lights to switch on at dusk to simulate a presence. It is also advisable to ask a friend or neighbour to collect your mail regularly. Finally, it is best to avoid sharing travel plans or absences on social media, as this can signal that your home is unoccupied.

These preventive measures are often enough to deter potential intrusions.

Decorating and installing safely

Decorations are an essential part of the festive atmosphere, but they deserve a little extra attention:

• Check the condition of fairy lights and electrical cables before installation,

• Avoid overloading sockets and power strips,

• Switch off illuminated decorations at night or when you are away,

• Place the Christmas tree at a safe distance from heat sources,

• For outdoor decorations, use lights specifically designed for outdoor use and check for an IP44 rating or equivalent symbols indicating adequate weather resistance.

Also remember to secure decorations firmly and keep small items out of reach of children and pets, who are often attracted to baubles, wires and garlands.

Be cautious with candles and open fires

Candles create a warm and cosy atmosphere during the festive season, but they are also one of the most common causes of household accidents at Christmas.

Never leave candles unattended, especially during meals or when going to bed. Make sure they are placed well away from decorations, the Christmas tree or any other flammable materials.

Open fires and fireplaces also require particular vigilance: use a fireguard, never leave a fire unattended, and ensure that embers are completely extinguished before leaving the room or going to sleep.

To maintain a cosy atmosphere without the risk, LED candles are a safe and equally decorative alternative.

Festive cooking, safely enjoyed

During the holidays, the kitchen becomes a busy place and the pace often intensifies. This bustle can lead to minor accidents if attention slips, but a few simple precautions can help prevent them:

• Opening oysters: use a suitable knife and protect the hand holding the shell to avoid cuts,

• Kitchen burns: always turn saucepan handles inwards and stay alert around hot dishes,

• Opening champagne: hold the cork firmly, open the bottle slowly and never point it towards anyone,

• Sharp utensils: work on a stable surface and store knives and sharp tools out of children’s reach after use.

Responding effectively in case of an incident at home

Even with the utmost care, accidents can still happen. In such situations, it is essential to react quickly and appropriately:

• In an emergency (accident, fire, etc.), call 112 immediately,

• In the event of a burn, run the affected area under cold water for 15 minutes,

• In case of a cut, disinfect the wound and apply a compressive dressing.

Having a well-equipped first aid kit is a real asset during the festive season. Make sure it is easily accessible and contains everything needed to deal with everyday minor incidents.

Does home insurance cover domestic accidents?

Coverage for a domestic accident depends primarily on the nature of the damage involved. Not all incidents that occur during the festive season are automatically covered by home insurance. Civil liability insurance only applies when damage is caused to a third party.

In the event of a claim, it is essential to keep invoices, photos and any other evidence documenting the damage. These documents will help facilitate the processing of your claim and speed up the procedure.

With a few preventive measures and the right habits, Christmas remains above all a time of enjoyment, sharing and peace of mind.The entire team wishes you a wonderful festive season.