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Insurable Interests
Vol.
15, Issue
3 •
November 2019
Use Caution to Avoid Holiday Fires

The holidays are a time for feasting, fellowship, celebration -- and house fires. According to the American Red Cross, there are nearly 47,000 fires during the winter holidays, resulting in more than 500 deaths, 2,200 injuries and $554 million in property damage. To keep your family safe this season:
- Check all holiday lights before you plug them in; if you aren't sure about a string of lights, don't use it. And always unplug indoor and outdoor lights when you are gone or in bed.
- If you have a real tree, make sure it is fresh and keep it watered. Don't place it close to a heat vent or fireplace, and unplug the lights when you leave the house or go to bed.
- Never leave candles -- from scented candles to tapers on your table -- unattended, and don't put them near curtains or other flammable materials.
- Keep anything flammable -- like towels, oven mitts, clothing, etc. -- away from the stove. Be very careful taking anything hot out of the stove or oven. Avoid splashing hot liquids.
- Make sure your fireplace and chimney are cleaned and ready before you start a fire. Don't leave or go to bed until you are sure the fire is out. And don't burn wrapping paper in the fireplace.
- If you want to deep fry your turkey, set up the fryer far away from your house or garage, keep kids and pets away, and never leave it unattended.
At The Bensman Group, we are always happy to discuss ways you can manage your risk. Contact us at 847-572-0808 or jfeiger@bensman.com.
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