Top 5 Holiday Decor Tips to Prevent Hazards in Your HOA Community Spaces
As the holiday season approaches, many HOAs are getting into the festive spirit by adorning their community spaces with beautiful decorations. From twinkling lights to Christmas trees, these decorations bring joy, warmth, and holiday cheer to the community. However, holiday decor can pose potential hazards if not properly installed and maintained, so it’s important to keep safety in mind. Here are five simple tips for preventing hazards in your HOA community spaces this holiday season.
Inspect All Wiring
One of the most common decorative elements used during the holidays is lights. Whether they are hung on trees, wrapped around poles, or draped around buildings, lights add a magical touch to any community space. However, before plugging in those lights, it’s important to inspect them thoroughly.
Check for any visible damage such as frayed wires or broken bulbs. If there is any damage, do not use the lights; promptly replace them with new ones. It’s also important, when decorating outdoor spaces, to use lights that are specifically designed for exterior use. Indoor lights are not equipped to withstand the elements and can cause fire or electrical hazards if used outdoors. Additionally, be sure to use extension cords and outlets that are rated for outdoor use to avoid overloading and potential fire hazards.
Water Christmas Trees Regularly
Christmas trees are an iconic symbol of the holiday season and are often used in community spaces for decoration. However, these trees can also pose a safety hazard if not properly maintained.
Dry trees are highly flammable and can quickly escalate into a dangerous fire. Be sure to water the tree regularly to keep it hydrated and prevent it from drying out. It’s also important to keep the tree away from any heat sources such as fireplaces, heaters, or radiators. Consider using artificial trees, which are less flammable and do not require watering.
Keep Exits Clear
In the midst of all the decorations and festivities, it’s important not to forget about the safety of your community members. Ensure that all exits and fire escapes are kept clear at all times.
Do not block exits with decorations, furniture, or any other objects. In the event of an emergency, these exits need to be easily accessible for a quick and safe evacuation. It’s also important to keep pathways and walkways clear of decorations to prevent tripping hazards and allow easy movement for community members.
Use Outdoor-Rated Decorations
When decorating community outdoor spaces such as courtyards, gardens, or exterior amenities, it’s essential to use decorations that are specifically designed for outdoor use. Outdoor-rated decorations are made to withstand the elements, such as wind, rain, and snow. They are also less likely to deteriorate compared to indoor decorations.
Using indoor decorations outdoors can not only damage the decorations but also pose serious safety risks. For example, using indoor lights outdoors can cause electrical hazards and increase the risk of fires. It’s crucial to always use outdoor-rated decorations in outdoor spaces to keep your community safe.
Safely Secure Decorations
Community spaces often have high foot traffic during the holiday season, making it important to secure decorations to avoid any potential tripping hazards. Whether it’s wrapping lights around columns or hanging banners and ornaments, make sure they are installed securely.
Be careful not to hang decorations overhead where they can obstruct walkways or pose a hazard to taller community members. It’s also crucial to avoid using nails, tacks, or staples to hang decorations, as they can damage surfaces and create sharp edges that can cause injuries. Consider using zip ties, clips, or Command hooks to secure decorations most effectively.
Incorporating festive decorations in community spaces brings joy and a sense of togetherness to the holidays. However, it’s important to prioritize safety and avoid potential hazards that can dampen the holiday spirit. If you’re an HOA board in need of assistance with holiday community management, a professional community association management company like The Management Trust can help you through the holiday season and beyond. To learn more about our full range of community management services, contact us today and request a custom proposal for your HOA. We look forward to working with you!
