10 Unique Holiday Safety Concerns for Florida Homeowners

Author:

Florida Peninsula Insurance Company

Date:

11/14/2025

1. Humidity & Mold

Florida's warm and humid climate can create ideal conditions for mold growth, especially during the holiday season when homes may be left unventilated for holiday gatherings elsewhere or travel. Mold not only poses health risks but can also damage your property if left unchecked. Salt air and humidity can also corrode wires fast – making outdoor lights in Florida a fire hazard. It’s crucial to be proactive in managing humidity levels to protect your home.

Humidity safety tips:

Keep indoor humidity below 60% with dehumidifiers and proper ventilation.
Regularly check for mold in damp areas and remove it with bleach promptly.
When traveling, maintain airflow in the home by leaving the air conditioning on a low setting.
Choose outdoor-rated cords and elevate power cord connections off the ground.

2. Holiday Lights

Florida’s mild winter allows for elaborate outdoor decorations and lighting, increasing fire risks. Decorating with lights is a festive tradition, but improper use can lead to electrical fires.

Holiday lights safety tips:

Inspect all lights for frayed wires or broken sockets before use.
Keep flammable materials away from heat sources.
Use outdoor-rated lights for outdoor displays
Avoid overloading circuits.
Plug outdoor lights into GFIC-protected outlets and keep extension cords elevated and dry.
Turn off lights when you go to bed or leave home.

3. Cooking Hazards

With holiday feasts on the horizon, kitchens become bustling hubs. Cooking-related fires are common during the holidays. In fact, electrical and kitchen fires remain two of the biggest threats to holiday home safety in Florida.

Cooking safety tips:

Never leave cooking unattended.
Keep flammable items away from the stovetop.
Have a fire extinguisher handy and know how to use it.

4. Holiday Entertaining

Holiday gatherings often involve larger crowds, which can lead to accidents and injuries.

Entertaining safety tips:

Keep walkways clear of obstacles and anything slippery.
Secure loose rugs.
Ensure pathways are well-lit.
If serving alcohol, have a plan for designated drivers or alternative transportation.

5. Pool Safety

With warm weather, many Floridians continue to enjoy their pools during the holidays. This raises additional holiday safety concerns, particularly for children and pets.

Pool safety tips:

Always supervise children and pets around the pool, making sure one adult is the designated watcher.
Install safety barriers, such as a pool fence with a self-latching gate.
Ensure life-saving equipment is readily accessible.
Educate everyone on swimming rules.
Avoid running near the pool to prevent accidents.

6. Wildlife Encounters

Florida's unique wildlife poses holiday safety concerns during outdoor gatherings in December and January. Potential encounters with alligators or snakes, especially near any body of water or wooded areas requires vigilance and caution.

Wildlife safety tips:

Remain alert when outdoors.
Keep food and trash securely stored to avoid attracting wildlife.
Educate others – especially children – about local wildlife.
Maintain a safe distance from any animals encountered outdoors.

7. Candle Safety

Candles create a warm and inviting atmosphere, but they can also pose fire hazards. According to the National Fire Protection Association, an average of 20 home fires each day are caused by candles – with candle-related fires peaking in December and January. Sadly, the largest number of candle-begun fires occur on Christmas Day.

Candle safety tips:

Always place candles on stable surfaces, away from flammable materials.
Never leave candles unattended.
Consider using flameless candles as a safe alternative; it’s one of the easiest ways to improve holiday home safety in Florida – without sacrificing ambiance.

8. Home Security

Many homeowners travel during the holidays, leaving their homes vulnerable to break-ins. The holiday season often sees a rise in thefts, especially with packages left on porches.

Home security tips:

Ensure all doors and windows are locked before leaving.
Consider investing in a monitored security system or smart home devices allowing you to monitor your home remotely – you may even qualify for a discount on your home insurance premium!
Ask a trusted neighbor to keep an eye on your property while you’re away.
Use package delivery options requiring a signature or have packages delivered to secure locations if you're not home to receive them.

Note: Even when taking every precaution, unexpected damage or theft can still occur. Reviewing your homeowners insurance now can help ensure your coverage matches your needs – and supports your efforts toward holiday home safety in Florida.

9. Pet Safety

With more people in the home and potentially dangerous decorations, pets can be at risk during the holidays.

Pet safety tips:

Keep candles, decorations, food, and hazardous items out of reach.
Ensure your pets have a quiet space to retreat to if they feel overwhelmed by holiday activity to help prevent dog bites inside and outside the home.

10. Holiday Hurricanes

While the holidays may seem (mostly) calm, Florida can still experience tropical storms and hurricanes in December and sometimes even in January. It’s essential to remain vigilant.

Hurricane safety tips:

Ensure your home is prepared for any unexpected weather changes.
Keep emergency supplies readily available, including flashlights, batteries, and nonperishable food.
If you live in an evacuation zone, have a preparedness plan in place.
If using a generator, operate it outdoors only and away from windows or doors to prevent carbon monoxide buildup.

Focus on Holiday Safety to Enhance Your Celebrations

The holiday season is thought of as a season of joy and celebration, but safety should always come first. By prioritizing holiday home safety in Florida, you can enjoy the season knowing your home and loved ones are protected.

Stay safe and enjoy the holidays!

If you have questions about your home insurance or need assistance with coverage, contact your Florida Peninsula Insurance Company agent right away. You can also get a quote with us online right now.