Who you don’t want at your Holiday party

Friends are a must. With family you don’t always have a choice. However, right at the top of your “not welcome” list should definitely be one person… Your insurance adjuster. That’s right, we don’t care how nice they are- if your insurance adjuster is showing up, your party most likely went from Holiday cheer to headache real quick. Here are few sure-fire ways to keep him or her away:

Limit the booze: A staple of most Holiday parties is alcoholic beverages of some sort. No matter what your poison, there have got to be limits, and here’s why: as a homeowner you are ultimately responsible for any accidents that occur caused by over consumption of your guests. Seems hard to believe but there have been many lawsuits brought against hosts who served alcohol to a guest who over-consumes and later experienced an accident or injury. So keep a responsible eye on your guests and don’t be afraid to cut someone off. And as always, anyone who is drinking, should never be allowed to drive.

Avoid open flames: Candles and fireplaces often set the mood for any party this time of year but they also can start a huge realm of problems if left unattended. Residential fires are at their peak this time of year. Avoid house fires caused by candles and fireplaces by either opting for other sources of light and heat or keeping a very close eye on open flames at all times. If you must light candles, make sure you keep flammable objects and materials away from the flame.

Prevent trips and falls: Avoid paying medical bills or filing a Med Pay claim on your homeowners insurance by making sure that all entryways are clear and safe. Nail down loose boards on decking, eliminate anything that can be tripped on and use de-icer to prevent slips on ice and snow.

Keep an eye on the food: What’s worse than serving under cooked food to your immediate family? How about serving undercooked food to your entire group of guests AND causing food poisoning? If you are cooking, make sure you check all perishable items for proper cook times. If you’re getting food catered, make sure you ask the catering company what their sanitation score is and double check the food once it arrives to make sure it looks and smells as it should.

No underage drinkers: As a homeowner you are responsible for everything that happens in your house- believe or not, even when you are not home. Always know the age of all guests consuming alcohol and don’t ever let anyone underage drink in your home. Make sure other adults at the party know the rule as well.