LIFE
Beating Holiday Stress
It is of little surprise that the holidays can be a significant source of stress for many Americans. Financial strains, pandemic concerns and shipping delays of highly anticipated gifts can add to holiday stress levels. This year, on top of typical holiday pressures, there is the additional concern of the continuing COVID-19 pandemic. To keep your stress at bay this season, try incorporating some of the following helpful tips:
- Stick to a budget. Financial stress strikes many during the holidays. Remember that the thought behind a gift is the most important aspect of giving gifts. Set a budget for yourself this season and stick to it.
- Travel with caution. Traveling during the holidays is stressful, with packed airports and potential flight delays. Add pandemic worries to the mix and traveling becomes a major stressor for many. Consider delaying holiday travel if you’re unvaccinated or considering other travel methods, such as driving.
- Get tested. Even if you don’t think you’ve been exposed to COVID- 19, getting a test before seeing family for the holidays is a great way to help keep yourself and your loved ones safe.
- Keep healthy habits. It’s easy to get into a holiday slump filled with food, leisure time and holiday activities. While fun, remember to take time for yourself as well to help reduce your stress. Consider doing something to stay active every day, making smart food and beverage choices, and getting at least seven hours of sleep each night.
- Prepare for shipping delays. Due to consequences resulting from the pandemic, shipping delays are occurring nationwide. Be sure to order your gifts early this year or even consider setting aside time to shop at your local retailers or small businesses.
AUTO
Winter Driving Emergency Kit
Just thinking about winter driving can cause stress, but can also be dangerous—even more so if you’re on the road unprepared for a possible accident. While winter weather has the potential to leave you and your car stranded, a winter driving emergency kit could help you get back on the road or at least help keep you safe while waiting for help to come.
If you live somewhere where snow and ice are common, consider packing a safety kit for your vehicle. Winter driving emergency kits typically include:
- Battery booster cables
- Ice scraper
- Portable shovel
- Basic first-aid kit
- Cell-phone charger
- Extra clothing such as hats, gloves and a blanket
- Water and long-lasting food
- Tow strap
You never know when you may become stranded in a winter weather storm or when your car could break down on a cold winter night. Having a basic essentials kit could be the difference between a minor and major incident.
HOME
Safely Decking the Halls
Festive lights are a staple for many Americans during the holidays. Although fun, they come with safety risks if not taken care of properly. The following are tips to help keep you and your home safe while decorating for the upcoming holidays:
- Select lights that have been independently tested by a safety and compliance organization. Tested products will generally have a label.
- Follow all usage directions before installing lighting to ensure that you are not increasing your risk of starting a fire.
- Inspect all lights before using them and discard those with damaged cords or plugs. Also, make sure the lights are unplugged before replacing any bulbs.
- Use a ladder made of nonconductive materials when you hang lights outside to reduce the risk of electrocution.
- Check to see if your lights are meant for indoor or outdoor use. Indoor lights can cause electrocution or fire if used outside.
- Unplug all of your lights before leaving your house or heading to bed for the night.
- Set up your tree at least 3 feet away from any source of heat if your decorations involve a Christmas tree.
- Discard your tree after two weeks. Trees tend to dry out at this point and are more prone to becoming highly flammable.
- Be careful with wiring. If you blow a fuse while decorating, discard the faulty light string or decoration to avoid further issues.
Even with the proper safety precautions, accidents can still happen. Monitor all of your lighting and decor during the holidays to ensure you’re keeping yourself and your home safe and stress free.
For more information questions and tips on how to reduce holiday stress, winter driving emergency kits, or keeping your home safe from holiday decoration hazards, contact us today!
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