10 Tips for Safe & Festive Holiday Decorating at Home

The holiday season is all about joy, festivities, and creating cozy memories at home. And while stringing lights and decking the halls is part of the fun, a little extra care can go a long way in keeping your celebrations running smoothly. Whether you’re going all out with outdoor décor or keeping it simple by the fireside, these practical tips will help you stay safe while spreading cheer.

Here are 10 essential tips to keep both you and your home safe while decorating this holiday season

1. Inspect Every String of Lights, Twice

Before you hang anything, check each strand of lights for frayed wires, cracked sockets, or loose connections. Damaged lights are a leading cause of house fires during the holidays. If you’re still using older incandescent lights, consider switching to LEDs. They’re not only more energy-efficient but also stay cooler to the touch, reducing the risk of overheating.

2. Don’t Overload Outlets or Extension Cords

One of the fastest ways to turn your festive living room into a fire hazard is by plugging too many decorations into one outlet. Stick to the “rule of three” - no more than three strands of lights per extension cord - and avoid daisy-chaining power strips. Always use surge protectors and make sure cords are rated for the wattage you need.

3. Keep Trees Away from Heat Sources

That cozy fireplace or heating vent might seem like the perfect backdrop for your tree, but it’s also a major fire risk. Whether your tree is real or artificial, it should be at least three feet away from any heat source. For real trees, water them daily because a dry tree can go up in flames in under a minute.

4. Hang Outdoor Lights with Safety in Mind

If you’re decorating the exterior of your home, always use lights, extension cords, and clips labeled for outdoor use. Plastic light clips are safer than nails or staples, which can pierce wires and create an electrical hazard. And never install lights in wet or icy conditions. It’s just not worth the risk.

5. Use a Ladder the Right Way

Most decorating injuries involve a ladder. Choose a sturdy, appropriately sized one, and always place it on level ground. Have a second person act as a spotter, especially if you’re reaching high places. Don’t lean too far or try to move the ladder while on it - climb down and reposition instead.

6. Secure Yard Decorations Against Wind and Weather

Inflatables, light-up reindeer, and festive signage can easily become airborne in a winter storm. Anchor decorations securely using ground stakes or tie-downs, and avoid placing large items under trees where falling branches could pose a hazard.

7. Be Mindful of Pets and Kids

That sparkly garland or dangling ornament might be irresistible to pets or small children. Avoid using decorations made of glass, sharp metal, or anything small enough to be swallowed. Keep cords tucked away and avoid placing tempting items like candy canes within easy reach.

8. Set Timers to Prevent Overnight Hazards

Leaving lights on overnight isn’t just wasteful, it’s risky. Use programmable timers or smart plugs to automatically turn off your indoor and outdoor decorations at a set time each evening. This not only prevents overheating but also keeps your electric bill in check.

9. Keep Walkways Clear and Well-Lit

Outdoor decorations should never obstruct pathways or stairs. Avoid running cords across walkways, but if you must, secure them tightly with outdoor-rated tape or protective covers. Make sure your porch, driveway, and steps are well-lit to prevent slips and falls for guests and delivery drivers alike.

10. Store Decorations Safely After the Holidays

When the season winds down, pack your decorations away with safety in mind. Coil light strings loosely to prevent tangling and breakage, and store items in sturdy, waterproof bins. Label everything clearly, and keep heavy bins on low shelves to avoid injuries next year when it’s time to decorate again.

Bob O’Donnell is the owner of O’Donnell Bros. Inc., a Bristol-based home improvement company established in 1975. Email your questions for Bob to info@odonnellbros.com with the subject line “Ask the Pro.” All questions may be considered for publication. To contact Bob for your remodeling needs, call O’Donnell Bros. Inc. at (860) 589-5155 or visit www.odonnellbros.com. Advice is for guidance only.

Spruce Up Your Front Porch on a Budget

There’s something about fall that makes us want to hit the reset button on our homes. Maybe it’s the cooler air, the crunch of leaves underfoot, or just the pull of pumpkin spice everything. Whatever the reason, the season is tailor-made for giving your front porch or entryway a little extra love. And here’s the good news: you don’t need to spend a fortune to make your home look inviting. With about $100 and an afternoon, you can create curb appeal that makes your house the coziest stop on the street.

Start with the Front Door

Your front door is the first thing people notice and it sets the tone for your home. A fresh coat of paint in a bold, welcoming color can make all the difference. Think deep red, navy, or one of the 2026 colors of the year to embrace fall’s golden hues. A quart of exterior paint runs about $30, and it’s a project you can tackle in a single afternoon.

Not in the mood for painting? Swap in a new doormat. Look for one with a witty seasonal saying or a classic coir mat with a simple design. At $20 or less, it’s an easy upgrade that makes guests feel welcome before they even knock.

Add Seasonal Planters

Nothing says “fall” like a burst of color from mums or the leafy texture of ornamental kale. Skip the expensive pre-made arrangements and head to your local garden center for mums, cabbage, and pumpkins to cluster by your steps. Place them in terra-cotta pots, galvanized buckets, or even a wooden crate for a rustic vibe.

Here’s a trick: elevate some of the plants on overturned pots or stacked bricks so the arrangement has different heights. It gives your porch a professional look without the price tag.

Layer in Lighting

As the days get shorter, lighting becomes essential, not just for safety, but for atmosphere. Solar-powered lanterns are affordable, energy-efficient, and easy to find for about $10 each. Arrange a couple along your steps or hang them near the door.

Another option is a short strand of LED string lights. Wrapped around a railing or tucked into a planter, they add just the right amount of glow for those chilly fall evenings. For $20, you’ll have enough to make your porch shine without looking like you’re skipping ahead to the holidays.

Cozy Finishing Touches

This is where you can really make the space feel personal. A seasonal wreath is a classic, and you don’t have to spend $50 on a store-bought one. Craft stores sell plain grapevine wreaths for under $10 and you can dress it up with faux leaves, ribbon, or even pinecones collected from your own yard.

If you have a chair or bench on your porch, drape a plaid throw over the back. You can pick up an inexpensive one at a discount store for $15 or less. It instantly says “cozy” and ties the whole look together.

Final Ideas

For less than the cost of a family dinner out, you can completely transform your front entrance for the season. The key is to invest in a few small upgrades that make a big impact: a fresh front door, a splash of color from plants, warm lighting, and a couple of personal touches.

Fall is about comfort, warmth, and community, and your home’s curb appeal should reflect that. So grab a paintbrush, a couple of mums, and a lantern or two. With $100 and a little creativity, you’ll have a front porch that welcomes neighbors, delights trick-or-treaters, and makes you smile every time you walk through the door.

Bob O’Donnell is the owner of O’Donnell Bros. Inc., a Bristol-based home improvement company established in 1975. Email your questions for Bob to info@odonnellbros.com with the subject line “Ask the Pro.” All questions may be considered for publication. To contact Bob for your remodeling needs, call O’Donnell Bros. Inc. at (860) 589-5155 or visit http://www.odonnellbros.com. Advice is for guidance only.

10 Budget-Friendly Ways to Refresh Your Home for the Holiday Season

As the holidays approach, it’s the perfect time to add a little magic to your home without breaking the bank. Here are ten affordable, creative ways to give your space a new look and impress your guests.

1. Revamp with Rearranging
   One of the easiest (and free!) ways to refresh your home is simply to rearrange your furniture. Consider swapping pieces between rooms or even shifting the focal point. Moving your sofa to a different wall, for instance, can make your space feel brand new. Experiment with different layouts to create a cozy flow for holiday gatherings.

2. Update Your Walls
   Adding a fresh coat of paint in a new shade or even an accent wall can make a big impact on a room’s ambiance. For a quick and budget-friendly update, try peel-and-stick wallpaper on a feature wall or behind open shelving.

3. DIY Seasonal Centerpieces
   Seasonal centerpieces instantly lift a room’s holiday vibe. Fill a bowl with pinecones, berries, or ornaments, and place it on your coffee or dining table. You can also create simple, elegant wreaths with fresh greenery, eucalyptus, or dried flowers, for an all-natural festive look.

4. Swap Out Pillows and Throws
   Changing your throw pillows and blankets is a quick way to transform the color scheme and feel of a room. Look for rich, cozy textures in holiday hues like deep greens, burgundy, and gold. Stores often have budget-friendly options this time of year, or you could swap covers on your existing pillows for a fresh look.

5. Revitalize with Rugs
   Rugs can anchor a room and give it warmth and style. Try layering a smaller, affordable rug over a larger one to introduce a new color or texture. You can find budget-friendly options in natural fibers or faux fur, adding a soft, inviting touch for holiday guests.

6. Add Greenery
   Bring in the outdoors with houseplants, which give any space an instant lift. For the holidays, add a few small evergreen trees, poinsettias, or mini rosemary plants, which double as décor and delightful natural scents.

7. Light Up with Candles
   Candles add warmth and ambiance that feel especially festive. Arrange them on shelves, tables, or even along your entryway for an inviting touch. For a low-cost option, grab a few pillar candles in holiday colors or a set of LED lights to keep it safe for family gatherings.

8. Introduce Festive Scents
   Scent is a subtle but powerful way to make a home feel refreshed. Simmer some cinnamon, cloves, and oranges on the stove for a cozy, holiday aroma or find affordable holiday-scented candles. Reed diffusers and essential oils in seasonal scents like pine or peppermint can also add a fresh twist.

9. Declutter and Deep Clean
   Sometimes, the best way to freshen up a space is to remove what doesn’t belong. Clearing away clutter can make a home feel more open and welcoming. Take the time to deep clean surfaces, especially in areas where guests gather like the kitchen, living room, and bathrooms.

10. Switch Up Art and Décor
    Rotate artwork or photos for a different vibe, or consider framing festive wrapping paper or postcards to make temporary, budget-friendly seasonal art. Small décor pieces like ornaments, garlands, or fairy lights in new places—like around a mirror or above a doorway—can add that holiday sparkle.

With these 10 tips, your home will feel cozy, inviting, and ready for the holiday season without requiring a huge investment.

Bob O'Donnell is the owner of O'Donnell Bros, Inc., a Bristol-based home improvement company established in 1975. Email your questions for Bob to info@odonnellbros.com with the subject line “Ask the Pro”. All questions may be considered for publication. To contact Bob for your remodeling needs, call O'Donnell Bros, Inc. at (860) 589-5155 or visit www.odonnellbros.com. Advice is for guidance only.