The holidays are a time for connection, celebration, and creating warm, welcoming spaces—but they also bring an increased risk of household fires. Between extra lighting, seasonal décor, and busy kitchens, property managers and landlords should be especially mindful of safety this time of year. At TALK Property Management, we help protect both your investments and your tenants’ well-being by encouraging proactive fire prevention throughout the holiday season.

Tree Safety Starts with Smart Choices

Holiday trees are beautiful but can quickly become a hazard if not cared for properly. If tenants prefer a live tree, they should look for one that’s fresh, with green, flexible needles that don’t fall off easily. Once set up, the tree should be kept well-watered and positioned at least three feet away from fireplaces, radiators, and heating vents. A dry tree can ignite in seconds, turning a festive scene into an emergency.

For artificial trees, landlords should remind residents to check for a “fire-resistant” or “flame-retardant” label. While this doesn’t make them fireproof, it significantly reduces the risk of ignition. In common areas of multi-family buildings, property owners may consider using only artificial, flame-retardant trees to minimize liability.

Candle Awareness and Open Flame Safety

Candles are a classic holiday accent, but they’re also one of the top causes of seasonal fires. Tenants should be encouraged to use sturdy, non-tip candle holders and to keep candles on stable, heat-resistant surfaces. Open flames should always be kept away from curtains, furniture, and other flammable materials.

When possible, suggest that tenants use battery-operated LED candles instead of traditional ones. These provide the same warm ambiance without the risk, and many models now feature flickering “flames” for an authentic look.

Holiday Lights and Electrical Load Safety

String lights, illuminated décor, and electric displays add to the holiday charm—but they can also overload circuits or cause electrical fires if used improperly. Tenants should inspect all cords and lights for fraying, broken sockets, or exposed wires before plugging them in.

Property owners can share these best practices with tenants:

• Only use UL-listed lights that are certified for indoor or outdoor use as intended.

• Never connect more than three strands of lights together on one outlet or extension cord.

• Avoid running cords under rugs or through doorways where they can overheat or become damaged.

• Always unplug lights before leaving home or going to bed.

If your property is older, it’s a good idea to ensure that outlets are updated to GFCI (ground-fault circuit interrupter) types, especially in kitchens, bathrooms, and outdoor spaces where moisture can increase the risk of electrical shock.

Kitchen Awareness During Holiday Feasts

The kitchen is often the heart of holiday celebrations—and one of the most common sources of household fires. During the holiday season, when tenants are hosting gatherings or cooking large meals, it’s essential to stay attentive.

Encourage tenants to:

• Never leave the stove or oven unattended, even for a short time.

• Keep flammable items such as towels, napkins, and oven mitts away from burners.

• Avoid wearing loose sleeves that could catch fire while cooking.

• Use timers as reminders when multiple dishes are cooking simultaneously.

A small Class B or C fire extinguisher should be easily accessible in every rental home, and tenants should be familiar with how to use it. Property owners can also include this reminder in their tenant move-in packets or seasonal email updates.

Property Owners: Take Preventive Steps Before the Holidays

As a landlord, a few simple maintenance checks before the holidays can go a long way toward preventing fires and ensuring your tenants’ safety. Consider these key steps:

• Test smoke detectors and carbon monoxide alarms in all units, replacing batteries or outdated devices as needed.

• Verify that fire extinguishers are installed, charged, and up to date.

• Inspect HVAC filters and dryer vents to prevent buildup that could lead to overheating.

• Send a friendly seasonal reminder to tenants with holiday safety tips and local emergency contact numbers.

These actions not only protect your investment but also demonstrate your commitment to providing a safe and well-maintained living environment—something tenants truly value.

Keeping the Holidays Bright and Safe

The holidays should be a time of celebration, not cautionary tales. With a few preventive measures and clear communication between landlords and tenants, it’s possible to enjoy all the magic of the season while minimizing risk.

At TALK Property Management, we specialize in helping Central Texas property owners maintain their rentals safely, efficiently, and profitably. From seasonal inspections to emergency preparedness, we make sure your property is protected year-round.

Contact TALK Property Management today to learn how our proactive approach can help you safeguard your investment while ensuring your tenants enjoy a bright, safe, and happy holiday season.

Serving Austin, Leander, Cedar Park, Round Rock, Pflugerville, and the greater Central Texas area, TALK Property Management provides professional, proactive service that protects your investment and gives you peace of mind.