Avoiding Common Home Hazards During the Holidays

The holiday season is a magical time—family gatherings, cozy evenings by the fire, and snow-covered New England landscapes. But while the season brings joy, it also comes with challenges for homeowners.

From frozen pipes to unexpected basement flooding, the holidays demand extra vigilance to keep your home safe. Whether you’re hosting relatives or simply enjoying quiet moments, preparing your home can save you stress and costly repairs.

In this guide, we’ll cover common holiday hazards for New England homes and share practical tips to keep your home warm, dry, and safe all winter long.

Common Holiday Hazards in New England

New England’s winter season brings unique challenges that can put your home at risk, especially during the holidays. From fire hazards to freezing pipes, being aware of these common issues can help you stay prepared and avoid costly surprises.

Fire Hazards: With holiday lights, decorations, and candles, the risk of fire increases significantly. Overloaded outlets can overheat, while live trees that aren’t watered regularly can become dangerously flammable. Open flames from candles also pose a hazard, especially if left unattended or placed near flammable items.

When decorating, consider safer equivalents like LED lights and flameless candles to reduce risks while maintaining a festive atmosphere.

Water Damage and Freezing Pipes: New England winters bring the threat of freezing pipes, especially in unheated areas like basements and crawl spaces. Frozen pipes can burst, causing costly water damage. To prevent frozen pipes, allow faucets to drip slightly during cold weather to keep water moving through them.

For long-term solutions, consider installing pipe heating cables or wraps in vulnerable areas, like basements and crawlspaces. Also, check your space to make sure that there are no cracks or broken seals that could be letting cold air in.

Ice Dams and Roof Damage: Ice dams form when heat escaping through the roof melts snow, which refreezes at the eaves, trapping water that seeps under shingles. Prevent ice dams by using a roof rake to clear snow after storms and ensuring your attic is well-insulated and ventilated. Addressing these hazards early can help avoid costly disruptions.

Preparing Your Basement

Your basement plays a crucial role in keeping your home safe and dry during New England’s winters. A few preventative steps now can save you from major headaches later.

Waterproofing and Foundation Maintenance: Inspect your basement for cracks or signs of moisture before temperatures drop. Even small foundation cracks can let water in during snowmelt or heavy rain. If you find cracks, contact a professional basement repair company. Persistent dampness or a musty smell may indicate deeper issues worth investigating.

Sump Pump Checks: A functioning sump pump is key to preventing basement flooding during heavy rains or snowmelt. We recommend yearly maintenance for all sump pump systems. For extra protection during winter power outages, consider a backup battery system installed by a professional to ensure it is done safely and is verified to be in good working condition.

Sealing Bulkheads: Bulkhead doors are a common entry point for water if not properly sealed. Check for gaps or worn seals and reseal as needed. Upgrading older bulkheads to weather-resistant models can prevent leaks. Make sure gutters and downspouts are clear of debris, and ensure water is directed away from the foundation with proper grading.

A Safe and Stress-Free Season

The holidays should be a time of joy and togetherness—not worry over home maintenance. If you suspect issues with your basement, foundation, or bulkhead, don’t wait for small problems to grow. Contact trusted local professionals to safeguard your home, allowing you to focus on making holiday memories.